"I only use James when I need some work done to my house. He responds fast, gets the work done quicker than just about anyone else I've ever used and seems very concerned with leaving his customers happy."
Yes, a house can collapse from severe foundation problems if they are left unchecked. However, this is a rare occurrence that typically takes many years to develop, and a partial collapse is more likely than a full one. Homes on hillsides or in areas with frequent washouts are at a higher risk. Barring a natural disaster or other extreme circumstances, clear signs of major issues will be apparent long before a collapse is imminent. It is crucial to conduct routine foundation inspections and address any problem, no matter how minor it seems, as soon as possible to avoid threatening the structural integrity of your home.
Trenchless sewer replacements are actually a great solution for sewer lines located under concrete. A professional can still sleeve and burst old piping to make room for a new one without having to dig up your slab.
Not all cracks in brick indicate foundation problems. For instance, small hairline cracks can occur as a new construction settles. However, larger cracks are often a sign of a more severe issue. Indicators of a potential foundation problem include long horizontal cracks, "stair-step" cracks, vertical cracks that appear indoors, or any crack that widens at the top. Other signs of structural damage to look for are uneven floors and doors or windows that stick. These issues could be caused by problems with the soil beneath the home or an overgrown tree.
Whether you need a permit for foundation repair depends on your location and the scope of the work. Major repairs like foundation stabilization typically require a building permit, while smaller projects such as sealing non-structural cracks or applying waterproofing solutions often do not. It's crucial that your contractor follows all local building codes, as an inspector will review the work to ensure it's up to standard. Failing to obtain the necessary permits can create issues when selling your home and may lead to further damage if the work is not done correctly. Your foundation repair specialist will usually know if a permit is needed and can handle the process for you. You can also contact your local building department or municipal office to confirm the requirements and verify that your contractor has filed the appropriate paperwork.
There are a few ways to reinforce a pier and beam foundation, including installing additional piers and beams for added support and performing underpinning, which redistributes the weight of your home further down into the ground where frost and soil expansion don’t pose a threat to the foundation. The best option for reinforcement varies based on your particular home and the soil conditions beneath it.
The Spalding, MI homeowners’ guide to foundation repairs
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Foundation repair costs can be tricky when you have a large repair on your hands. This guide walks through costs from small cracks to total replacement.
Worried about pier and beam foundation repair costs? Get a better understanding of how to budget by learning about the repair methods available to you.
Unstable or sinking foundations require comprehensive and expensive solutions. Learn about foundation underpinning costs in this guide to set your budget.
