Foundation Friday: Case Study: Fieldstone Foundation Repair on Historic Merrimac Waterfront Home
- NE Crack
- Apr 4
- 2 min read
This week, we're highlighting a project currently underway at a beautiful 5-bedroom, 3-bath, 3,700 square-foot home in Merrimac, Massachusetts. Built in 1852, this historic property overlooks the water and offers classic New England charm—but like many older homes, it also comes with structural challenges beneath the surface.
Why Fieldstone Foundation Repair Requires Expertise
Fieldstone foundation repair isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. These foundations, commonly found in 19th-century New England homes, are built with irregular stones and aging mortar that require specialized techniques to restore. Unlike modern concrete foundations, fieldstone walls demand careful evaluation, proper cleaning of joints, and the use of compatible lime-based mortar. When done correctly, fieldstone foundation repair not only strengthens the structure but also preserves the historic character of the home.
Current Work in Progress: We began with a full interior repointing of the main basement. Repointing is essential in older homes where original mortar has begun to crack or crumble. This process helps to restore the wall's integrity and prevent water infiltration.
On the garage side of the basement, we’re not only repointing the foundation walls but also installing four new concrete support pillars. These are placed every 3 to 4 feet to stabilize the foundation wall and prevent further movement—a common issue in homes where the foundation has begun to bow or shift under pressure.
Structural Support Enhancements: We are replacing a total of nine lally columns—six in the main basement and three in the garage side. Lally columns provide vertical support to carry the load of the structure above. In older homes, original supports may have settled or rusted over time, reducing their effectiveness. Replacing them with modern, properly footed columns ensures lasting stability.
Staircase Access & Reconstruction: To access critical wall areas for repointing, the existing staircase in the garage basement needed to be removed. Once the foundation repairs are completed, we will rebuild the staircase to meet current safety standards.
Additional Repairs: The scope of work also includes filling beneath the front garage wall for improved ground support, repointing both chimneys within the main basement, and performing selective exterior repointing to seal vulnerable areas.
Final Waterproofing: Once all structural work is completed and allowed to cure, we will apply Drylok to the entire basement and garage walls. This waterproofing treatment adds an extra layer of defense against moisture—essential for homes located near bodies of water, like this one.
Why It’s Important: For a home of this age and size, proactive foundation repair is not just about preserving the building—it’s about protecting the health, safety, and long-term investment of the homeowner. With the right care, this 1852 property can remain strong and secure for generations to come.
Stay tuned for a follow-up once the work is complete.
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