Who to Call to Repair Foundation Issues
Protect your home's stability and resale value by resolving any issues
Your home's foundation is probably the most critical portion to keep in great shape, so if there are issues that need fixing, you don't want just anyone taking care of it—you want the best. 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 what to look for in a foundation repair contractor and how to make sure you're getting the highest quality work possible.
Benefits of Hiring a Foundation Repair Contractor
It’s right there in the name—foundation repair contractors are experts in foundation repair. But that’s not the only benefit to hiring this pro.
Experience. Foundation repair contractors have an established resume of experience doing just the job you need them to do, so you know it’ll be done well, aand you will have some peace of mind.
Proper tools. Foundation repair contractors typically come equipped with all the necessary tools to do the job both properly and safely. This means you don’t have to worry about spending money on the tools or learning to use them.
Coverage. Foundation repair contractors come equipped with proper insurance coverage. Should anything about the job go awry, you’re protected.
Can You DIY Foundation Repair?
Yes, you can DIY foundation repairs. However, you should only do so if you have the proper tools and materials and can do so safely and knowledgeably.
While it’s important that you don’t delay foundation repairs, this doesn’t mean you should opt to DIY. Sometimes, DIYing might mean saving money upfront, but it could be more expensive if you end up needing additional repairs. Instead, consider contacting a foundation repair contractor near you to give yourself the peace of mind that the job will be done right from the start.
Hairline cracks under 1/18 inches are normal, but if you spot larger or deeper cracks, call a pro immediately. Cracks exceeding 1/4 inches are a sign of more serious structural damage and should be handled by a foundation pro.
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 and inform you of its structural integrity, you can’t hire them to actually repair the foundation. Instead, they’d play the role of assessing the foundation both before and after repairs to ensure it’s safe. Typically, this isn’t included in the foundation repair cost, as there is an individual foundation inspection cost. However, some foundation repair companies may have an in-house structural engineer.
How Does a Contractor Repair Your Foundation?
Big problems you might find in your foundation include cracks and leaks that can cause extensive damage. Foundation problems can even create safety risks in a home due to uneven flooring.
To fix this, you need a foundation repair specialist. Here are some of the tasks they may perform:
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
