Your foundation is the most important part of your home. It supports your home, provides stability against the ground, and repels water from your basement and crawlspace. It’s also where the electrical and plumbing services are located, so it’s crucial to have a sturdy, solid structure in place.
There are many different types of foundations, but a concrete slab foundation is one of the most common. These homes often have a foundation that is 4 to 8 inches thick.
The most common issue with this type of foundation is settling, or the building sagging in response to changes in weather conditions or soil pressure. Over time, this can lead to cracks that may allow water to leak into your basement or crawl space.
A contractor that does foundation repairs uses special techniques and materials to stabilize your home. They also have the experience and knowledge to ensure that the repair job is done safely.
Before beginning a foundation repair, the contractor will make a plan for the work. This plan will identify the points where additional support is needed to hold your foundation up and back in its original position.
They will also determine how many supports will be required, as well as the locations where they will be placed.
Next, the foundation contractor will dig and drill holes to install the new supports. This can be accomplished with either piers, also known as bell-bottom piers, or pre-formed concrete pieces that are driven into the ground by hydraulic pressure in the case of pilings (also called pressed piles).
When the new supports are installed, the contractor will then raise the sunken portions of your home and verify that it is back to its original elevation.
The price of your foundation repair depends on the type of problem you have and the extent of the work needed to fix it. Usually, the larger the problem, the more extensive the work will be.
You can find out what a reasonable cost for your home’s foundation repair is by asking around in your local area. There are a number of resources that can provide you with quotes from contractors, including the Better Business Bureau and your local building inspectors.
In general, home foundation repair prices can range from around $4,500 to $7,000. The average price is based on the type of problem and the location of your house.
It’s a good idea to get a quote from at least two other contractors before making your decision. A foundation job is a big investment, so it’s smart to get some estimates to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible.
It’s also a good idea to check out reviews online to see how other homeowners felt about their experiences with various contractors. Be sure to look for any issues with a company or their work, such as unsatisfactory customer service or shoddy workmanship.