Basements & Foundations

Your basement and foundation are the roots of your home, so it’s important to know about common problems that could affect them. From basement flooding to a cracked foundation, and everything in between—our expert insights will keep you informed.

Photo: 10'000 Hours / DigitalVision / Getty Images
Photo: 10'000 Hours / DigitalVision / Getty Images
Explore top articles
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Construction worker pouring and leveling concrete slab foundation with rebar reinforcement from a cement truck at a residential building site
Aug 14, 2025
Aug 14, 2025
A foundation for a new-build home averages around $11,000. Find out all the factors that affect the cost of a foundation and how to save money.
Concrete slab foundation leak and water damage
Dec 22, 2024
Dec 22, 2024
Plumbing leaks are never fun, but they’re worse when they happen inside your foundation. Use this guide to slab leak repair costs to see what you’re up against.
Wine cellar in basement with exposed brick wall
May 21, 2025
May 21, 2025
A bowing basement wall needs immediate repair. Learn how much it costs to repair a bowing basement wall and what factors can affect the final price tag.
Small house exterior with walkway and porch
Jun 25, 2024
Jun 25, 2024
Foundation repair affects home value, but how it affects the value depends on the type of repair, the underlying issue, and who does the work for you.
man pointing to crack in the wall
Jun 25, 2025
Jun 25, 2025
Some cracks in your drywall are harmless, while others require attention. Learn if cracks in your drywall indicate foundation problems and what steps to take.
 A large house with shrubs planted next to it
Jul 18, 2024
Jul 18, 2024
A sinking foundation can compromise the safety and structural integrity of your house. Learn what signs to look for and what to do if you find them.
Need help finding the right pro?
Share your project details and we’ll match you with up to 3 available pros near you.
View all articles
home laundry room
Discover the cost to finish a basement laundry room. Learn about average prices, key cost factors, and tips to budget your basement laundry remodel.
A gray metal basement bulkhead door is installed against a house with white siding and a stone walkway
When storm season is approaching, ensure you’re ready to go in case of an emergency. Explore our guide to budgeting for bulkhead replacement costs.
A coastal residential district showcases homes potentially requiring earthquake retrofitting to strengthen structures against seismic activity.
Discover how much it costs to repair earthquake damage. Learn about average costs, key factors, and ways to save on earthquake repairs for your home.
Construction worker pouring and leveling concrete slab foundation with rebar reinforcement from a cement truck at a residential building site
A foundation for a new-build home averages around $11,000. Find out all the factors that affect the cost of a foundation and how to save money.
A yellow mini-excavator digs a trench in a residential backyard next to a wooden fence
Digging a trench is usually the first step in a larger home project. Our trenching cost calculator breaks down the factors that affect the price tag of this job.
Modern gray-tiled bathroom with glass shower enclosure, mosaic accent strip, and black countertop vanity
Water damage restoration costs depend on the severity of the problem, the type of water, and the length of time the damage has been occurring.
Concrete being poured over rebar into a wooden form for a foundation slab.
When it comes to comparing a slab vs. crawl space foundation, each has its pros and cons. Read on for a breakdown of these two foundation options.
A tan finished basement features a wet bar with dark countertops, a gray sectional sofa, and built-in shelving
An unfinished basement has a lot of potential for a family room or guest suite. So how much does it cost to finish a basement? Read on for all cost factors.
White corrugated drainage tube laid around a foundation’s gravel footing in a soil trench
Need to protect your foundation from water intrusion and moisture buildup? Learn about the four different types of foundation drainage and how each one works.
A modern finished basement features a wet bar, comfortable seating, wood floors, and exposed wooden beams
Can you add a basement to a house? Use this guide to learn the benefits and drawbacks of adding a basement to your home.
pipes assembled for draining in trench
Wondering what weeping tile is? With the unique and somewhat confusing name, you’re not alone. Learn more about weeping tile drainage systems in this guide.
Modern basement sump pump system with sealed cover and PVC discharge pipe.
Sump pumps are a must for homeowners who live in flood zones. Find out how much sump pump installation costs based on type, location, and features.