Get matched with top foundation repair specialists in Libby, MT

Most single-story homes don't have foundations strong enough to support a second story, but they can be reinforced for an addition. A structural engineer can assess your foundation and what needs to be done to get it ready. They'll look at any cracks or unevenness in your current foundation and consider any special framing or beams your home needs, especially if it’s in a high-wind or hurricane area.

“To support a second story, many structural engineers will require that you install additional concrete piers in the crawlspace,” says Tschudi. “This involves hand excavating, pouring a large concrete footing—usually with specially coated rebar—and then building concrete piers right up to the girders.”

Regularly inspecting your foundation—at least the visible sections—for signs of foundation issues like moisture and pest infestation is a good way to identify slab leaks early, as is keeping an eye and ear out for water damage to indoor building materials, above-average water bills, sounds of running water when no fixtures or appliances are on, and indoor humidity that causes the temperatures to feel more extreme. If you do find any issues, contact a plumber right away to check it out for you.

Whether your homeowners insurance covers slab leak repairs depends on your specific policy and the cause of the leak. Many policies cover slab leaks resulting from a covered peril, such as a natural disaster, a falling tree, or pipes freezing and bursting within the slab. However, damage caused by invading tree roots, corrosion, or leaks from appliances may not be covered by a standard policy. It's a good idea to also check your home warranty plan for potential coverage if an appliance is the source. Contact your insurance provider for a full explanation of what your policy covers.

Underpinning is a specific type of foundation repair where a specialist installs deep piers under a foundation to provide additional support. This method is often used when the soil beneath the foundation can no longer evenly support the structure. Foundation repair is an umbrella term that includes many methods. Besides underpinning, other common repairs include foundation crack repair, waterproofing, cosmetic repairs, and concrete block wall stabilization. Often, underpinning is accompanied by other work to address the root cause of the foundation issue, such as regrading the yard to ensure water drains away from the house.