How Long Does Foundation Repair Take?
Repairing your foundation is not something that you want to put off for too long. While you might not like having contractors in your home for a lengthy period of time, these are beneficial and necessary projects that need to be done.
The best thing to do is to get your foundation inspected as soon as you start noticing signs of movement. This will allow you to stop problems from getting worse, and save money in the long run.
Water damage
One of the most common causes of foundation problems is water damage. When cracks in the concrete allow water to enter the home, it can cause heaving and sinking as well as mold and mildew problems. If the foundation becomes too damaged, the house will lose value and become unsafe to live in.
If you see signs of water damage, call a professional right away. This may help you sell your home faster and avoid major problems down the road.
To keep your home safe from foundation problems, make sure you clean out gutters regularly and slope the yard away from the house. You should also remove any tree roots that have grown too close to the foundation. This can also clog sewer lines and cause flooding. Lastly, you should avoid building on fill dirt, as this can lead to soil sinking and cracking.
Foundation cracks
When foundation cracks occur in a home, it is an indication that the house is sinking or shifting. This type of damage should be repaired as quickly as possible to prevent further issues with the structure of the house and safety hazards.
When left unattended, cracks allow water and soil gases to penetrate into the home. This can cause sagging walls, doors that are difficult to open and close and even rotting beams and piers. It can also lead to residential mold, which is one of the leading causes of indoor illness in America.
It is important to hire a company that is skilled and experienced in both waterproofing and foundation repair. They should be able to provide referrals, pictures of previous projects and a clear, concise estimate that includes all elements needed for repairs. If the company is reluctant to provide these or stalls in their schedule, do not hire them. These are indicators of a low-quality company.
Sewer or drainage pipe leaks
Many homes have plumbing lines running underneath the foundation. A sewage leak can cause sinking of the foundation and may require extensive plumbing repair that could go hand-in-hand with foundation repair. This is why many foundation repair contractors require a plumbing test to be passed before completing the project.
A plumber can test for leaks in the sewer line by using a hydrostatic pressure test to split a section of the pipes and fill them with water. Then, they can monitor the level of water for changes over time. If the piping is leaking, it will cause clay soil to heave and this can damage the foundation.
A plumber can also check for sewer leaks by looking for a high water bill or lush green spots in the yard that are distinct from other areas. Leaks in the sewer can also lead to a strong odor that might smell like rotten eggs or have a funky odor that will attract rodents to the house.
Hidden obstacles
A homeowner may be surprised to learn that the price of foundation repair can increase due to unseen obstacles. This could include the need for a geotechnical engineer to complete a soil report ($500-$3,000) or a structural engineer to determine the best repair method if the foundation is bowing.
These additional fees are based on the extent of damage and how invasive the repairs will be. The type of foundation and repair method also affect how long the project takes to complete.
Bowing basement walls require more time and a more invasive repair method than straightening cracks in the foundation. Carbon fiber straps, which can be installed from the inside of the home, are the quickest way to repair a bowing wall.
It’s important for homeowners to recognize the early warning signs of foundation problems so that they can address them quickly. Waiting to have a leaking basement repaired or addressing cracks in foundation walls can make the problem worse and cause additional damage throughout your home.
Sugar Land Foundation Repair Solutions
Repairing your foundation is not something that you want to put off for too long. While you might not like having contractors in your home for a lengthy period of time, these are beneficial and necessary projects that need to be done. The best thing to do is to get your foundation inspected as soon…