Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Chico
A home in Chico might experience foundation issues for multiple reasons. Some are unique to the local environment, while others are prevalent nationwide. They include:
- Soil composition: Soil with large clay or sand concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Chico experiences, the soil absorbs moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction presses against nearby foundations, even if the foundations stay dry.
- Drought conditions: Chico is prone to drought. The absence of rainfall and fluctuating humidity levels each season result to ever-shifting soil. The resulting soil settlement can displace and damage your foundation.
- Improper modifications: Landscaping or roofing work that wasn't completed to standard could lead to your foundation settling.
- Aging plumbing: The average Chico home construction year is 1982. If you live in an older home, it's likely to have cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start eroding, leaking water could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Choosing a foundation company doesn't have to be complicated. We encourage you to write down what you desire most in a company, then evaluate each company on your selection against these qualities.
Licensing and Experience
The Golden State issues many different kinds of contracting licenses, and foundation companies often have more than one. You can verify a company's licensing information through the Contractors State License Board, a division of the California Department of Consumer Affairs. Look for a company with a General Building Contractor, General Engineering Contractor, C-8 Concrete, or C-61 Pile Driving credential. You can also get a sense of a company's experience through the information its team gives you. Ask about its inspection processes, local code requirements, permit-pulling procedures, and fees.
One of the easiest ways to evaluate a company's reputation is to browse its website. Look for the company's history and what credentials its team holds. Many leading companies provide educational content for future customers.
Customer Reviews
When you're researching a company's reputation, visit its Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile. There, you can find its "letter grade" rating and a list of customer reviews, both positive experiences and complaints. Remember that complaints don't necessarily mean a contractor is unqualified. BBB comments also show how companies address complaints. A proactive team that aims to achieve amicable outcomes is a good one. Steer clear of a business if you don't see good communication about problems.
Foundation Repair Cost in Chico
The cost of foundation repair can differ significantly depending on the severity of the issues and what needs to be done to fix them. For minor foundation fissures and settling issues, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is considerable damage, the average cost will likely fall around $2,500. More complex jobs involving excavation, helical piers, or concrete leveling could cost $6,700 or more. See below the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $302 |
Leak Repair | $2,353 |
Stabilization | $4,020 |
Underpinning | $1,162 |
Waterproofing | $2,591 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Chico
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Chico?
What are some signs I need foundation waterproofing?
Note that there are two kinds of waterproofing. Interior waterproofing involves installing drains and sump pumps or using sealants around a cellar. Exterior waterproofing is typically less expensive. It involves installing exterior drains and creating physical barriers between your foundation and lawn.
Will my homeowners insurance cover foundation repair?
Do Chico foundation repair companies offer warranties or guarantees?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
More Foundation Resources
National Foundation Repair Ranking Methodology
Sources
U.S. Census Bureau (American Communities Survey)