While a few cracks in your walls are normal, if the cracks are wider than 1/8 inch or show a stair-step pattern, this is a sign of shifting foundation and needs to be looked at right away. Other signs of foundation problems include sagging floors, sticking doors and windows, and moisture leaks. Check out foundation repair Pearland TX for more information.
Foundation Repair Costs
The overall cost of your foundation repair will depend on the severity and scope of the damage, as well as how much labor is involved. Minor cracks can be repaired with epoxy and sealants for a low cost. For more extensive damage, you may need a geotechnical engineer to complete a soil report, which can cost $500-$3,000.
The type of foundation also impacts the costs, as do the soil conditions and drainage systems. For example, if your foundation is sinking due to expansive clay or poor soil compaction, the contractor will need to perform underpinning or slab-jacking to address the problem.
Properly addressing foundation issues can increase the value of your home. A house with a healthy foundation can be more appealing to potential buyers, and many repair companies offer warranties that are transferable to new owners. This can help you secure a higher selling price and ease the transition for future homeowners. Also, it’s important to remember that unaddressed foundation problems can cause damage throughout the home.
Foundation Repair Timeline
Few property issues are more critical than foundation damage, so homeowners need to understand the timelines involved with repairs. This guide can help you understand the factors that influence repair durations and how to manage expectations based on your specific situation.
The extent of the damage is one of the biggest determinants in how long it takes to repair your foundation. Minor cracks and settling issues may only take a few days to address, while bowing walls and extensive shifting might require weeks or even months to stabilize.
Weather conditions also impact the duration of a foundation repair project. Heavy rains or extreme temperatures can delay outdoor work, which can add several days to your overall project timeline. Finally, the type of foundation and selected repair methods also affect the duration of the process. For example, helical and push piers need more time to install than simpler patching and sealing techniques. If interior pier stacks need to be rebuilt or added, this will take several days as well.
Foundation Repair Methods
Foundation problems can be caused by a variety of factors. Poor soil conditions, water damage from plumbing leaks or flooding and even natural disasters can weaken the foundation of a home and result in wall cracks, sloping floors, doors or windows that don’t close properly and other structural damage.
If you are experiencing signs of foundation movement, professional contractors can use a variety of foundation repair methods to address the issue. These include slabjacking and piering.
Slabjacking is a concrete lifting technique where holes are drilled through the slab and then filled with a synthetic lifting solution that fills the void and lifts the slab to a level that is even with the surrounding concrete.
Piering is another concrete repair method that involves digging and drilling through the foundation and placing steel or concrete piers beneath your house. These piers reach bedrock or heavy, compact soil and can support significant weight. They are also a permanent solution to foundation issues and can work in nearly any upper soil condition.
Foundation Repair Contractors
The best foundation repair contractors have special skills, equipment, and knowledge that focus on the unique needs of repairing homes with damaged foundations. They also follow industry-standard practices and high quality materials. Avoid contractors that offer cheap prices and sloppy workmanship.
Homeowners can increase their chances of finding a good local contractor by asking for referrals from friends, family members, and neighbors who have had foundation issues resolved recently. They should also search online for reviews and testimonials.
In addition, homeowners should look for a foundation repair company that offers multiple solutions and can provide detailed project estimates in writing. They should also ask about the type of insurance the contractor carries, such as personal liability, worker’s compensation, and property damage coverage. Finally, homeowners should check that the contractor has been certified by a professional organization, such as ICC-ES, to ensure that their methods meet building codes and are safe for homes.
