Who to Call to Repair Foundation Issues

Your home’s structural integrity depends on the condition of its foundation, so you’ll want to hire the right professional to address any issues. But when it comes to foundation repair, how do you find a highly-rated contractor, and what exactly do they do? This guide will break down who to call for foundation repair.

Benefits of Hiring a Foundation Repair Contractor

Local foundation repair specialists are the best experts for issues with your foundation. Here’s why:

• Experience: Foundation repair contractors have experience diagnosing and fixing foundation problems, which should give you some peace of mind.

• Proper tools: These pros come equipped with specialized tools and materials to complete the job, such as hydraulic jacks, foundation piers, and epoxy systems.

• Insurance coverage. Most licensed contractors carry liability and workers’ compensation insurance, which protects the homeowner if something goes wrong on the job.

• Local expertise: Pros should be familiar with local soil types and weather conditions, helping them provide specialized services.

Can You Hire a Structural Engineer for Foundation Repair?

Structural engineers specialize in analyzing and planning the structural components of buildings to ensure they’re safe. While you could hire a structural engineer to inspect your foundation, you can’t hire one to actually repair it. Instead, they’d play the role of assessing the foundation before and after repairs. 

This service is typically not included in your foundation repair cost, so you may pay an additional foundation inspection cost. That said, some foundation repair companies may have an in-house structural engineer.

How Does a Contractor Repair Your Foundation?

Foundation problems, such as cracks and leaks, can cause extensive damage. They can also create safety risks in a home due to uneven flooring. To address these issues, you’ll need to hire a foundation repair specialist near you. 

A foundation repair specialist may perform these tasks:

• Fill in cracks

• Install piers to stabilize a damaged foundation

• Pipe in high-density polyurethane foam to deal with emergencies

• Apply masonry patches and sealants

• Replace the foundation entirely

• Do "slab jacking"—which involves injecting grout or foam underneath the foundation to raise it instead of installing a new concrete foundation

How Much Does Foundation Repair Cost?

Foundation repair costs often range from $2,220 to $8,100, with an average price of $5,100. This often breaks down to between $1.50 and $12 per square foot.

Your final bill will vary based on the severity of the issue. Other factors affecting the cost include the type of foundation, soil stability, repair method, accessibility of the work site, local labor rates, and more. In general, you’ll pay around $200 per hour in labor fees for this project.  

DIY Foundation Repair vs. Hiring a Pro

You should only attempt DIY foundation repairs if you have the tools, materials, and skills to do the job safely and correctly. While doing it yourself might save money upfront, mistakes can be extremely costly (and potentially dangerous) to fix.

Foundation issues often run deeper than they appear, and improper repairs can worsen structural damage or void your home’s warranty. To avoid mishaps, consider contacting a foundation repair contractor near you to ensure the problem is handled properly.