When you have foundation problems, you will want to hire a good contractor who can fix them properly. They should be licensed, bonded, and insured. It’s also a good idea to check their references. You can do this by calling local building inspectors or checking with your neighbors who have had work done on their homes.
A reputable foundation repair company will offer warranties, provide free estimates and inspections, and have a well-documented process. You can also ask your local Better Business Bureau for reviews of their services and find out if any complaints have been filed against them.
They should also be knowledgeable and skilled in the field of foundations. They will know the right solutions for your particular situation and the best ways to maintain your home after repairing your foundation.
You should also look for a professional that is certified by the Concrete Foundation contractor Association (CFA). It’s a good idea to read through the certification requirements and the benefits of the certification before you make the decision to hire a CFA-certified foundation contractor.
The CFA also offers continuing education courses to its residential foundation contractors. This includes a basic knowledge exam, preparation seminars, and an on-going series of educational activities and industry events to keep the residential foundation repair professionals up-to-date with the latest research, technologies, and techniques.
They may also have a referral program to help you get the best possible price for your repair job. This is a great way to save money and ensure that you’re hiring a reputable contractor who does high-quality work.
Another thing to consider when looking for a foundation repair contractor is the type of repairs needed. Some foundations are more susceptible to damage than others, so you should be sure to choose a company that specializes in the type of foundation that is affecting your home.
You should also be sure to find out how long the company has been in business and if they are a member of any trade associations. You should also look for reviews from previous customers to see if they were satisfied with their work and if they would recommend the contractor to their friends.
Depending on the type of foundation that you have, your contractor will need to perform a variety of repairs and inspections. This can include mud jacking, underpinning, and piering.
Slabs are a popular choice for foundations, and they are usually found in warmer climates where freezing and thawing can make the soil around them crack. These types of foundations are relatively inexpensive to build, but they can be very expensive to repair if there’s a problem.
Underpinning – Piering is a more expensive method of foundation repair, and it involves drilling pillars into the ground underneath or around the basement to stabilize the structure. It is often recommended by foundation experts, as it can provide a permanent solution to a wide range of structural issues.
Other common types of foundations include crawlspaces, slabs, and basements. Slabs are the cheapest to build, and they require minimal maintenance. However, they are also the least durable and are more likely to experience foundation problems than other types of foundations. They can also be prone to mold and mildew, so they should be checked regularly.
