Homeowners Foundation Engineers Network

Constructimate: 2025 Residential Project of the Year Finalist

CONSTRUCTIMATE-RES-POTY-25-1

Constructimate LLC Restores a Failing Front Porch in Girard, Kansas

When foundation problems affect visible, structural elements of a home, the stakes are high — especially when those elements include a tall, narrow front porch and a brick façade. That was the challenge facing Constructimate LLC, a nominee for the 2025 Residential Project of the Year, when they were called to a home in Girard, Kansas for porch foundation stabilization.

The home’s front porch had begun settling and pulling away from the main structure, creating a substantial gap between the porch and the house. As the porch moved, it also pulled the brick façade away from the home’s skeletal structure, introducing both structural and aesthetic concerns.

What followed was a technically demanding repair that required precision, planning, and the right foundation support system.

The Challenge: Stabilizing a Tall Porch With a Narrow Base

At first glance, the porch’s dimensions told the story of the complexity involved:

  • 24 feet tall
  • Only an 8-foot-wide base

This narrow footprint created a critical challenge. In order to lift the porch back to its original elevation, the structure needed to pivot precisely at the adjoining footings. Any miscalculation could result in:

  • Brick façade failure
  • Loss of structural alignment
  • Collapse or cracking during lift

The Constructimate team needed to restore the porch without allowing the brick to collapse, while keeping the pivot point exactly where it belonged.

The Solution: Strategic Use of ECP Push Pier Systems

To solve the problem, Constructimate turned to Earth Contact Products (ECP) foundation systems, selecting a configuration that allowed for both controlled lift and long-term stabilization.

Foundation Repair System Used

  • Six (6) ECP PPB-250 Push Pier Brackets
  • PPB-200 Push Pier Pipe

Installation Strategy

  • Two (2) push piers were installed on the north side of the porch to stabilize the structure and help control the lift.
  • Four (4) push piers were installed along the front (west) side of the porch to support the main lifting effort.

To further protect the structure during the lift:

  • The front of the porch was braced with deadheads to prevent the already-leaning pillars from tipping too far forward.
  • Tie-downs were used to carefully pull the porch pillars back toward the home, restoring alignment as elevation was regained.

This combination of structural bracing and foundation support allowed the porch to be lifted smoothly while maintaining the integrity of the brick façade.

Precision, Teamwork, and Execution

This project required more than just the right products — it required a skilled crew executing a well-thought-out plan.

Installers on the project included:

  • Mike Hanika
  • Cooper Ratzlaff
  • Leo Perez
  • Nino Perez
  • Heriberto Perez
  • Emerson Perez

Their coordinated efforts ensured the porch was stabilized, lifted, and secured without compromising the home’s structural or visual integrity.

Why This Project Stands Out

This example of porch foundation stabilization is a standout example of what’s possible when experience, engineering, and proven foundation products come together. The project demonstrates:

  • Advanced lift control on a narrow, vertical structure
  • Protection of brick façades during structural correction
  • Effective use of ECP Push Pier Systems in complex residential applications

It’s a strong example of why Constructimate LLC earned its nomination for the 2025 Residential Project of the Year.

Interested in Becoming an ECP Partner?

Projects like this one don’t happen by accident. They’re the result of training, support, and access to foundation repair systems designed for real-world challenges.

If you’re a foundation repair contractor looking to:

  • Take on more complex projects
  • Offer engineered, proven solutions
  • Differentiate your business with industry-leading products

👉 Join the ECP Partner Network today and gain access to innovative foundation systems, technical support, and a community of professionals committed to raising the standard of foundation repair.

Learn more and apply at: www.getecp.com

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