Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Covina
Foundation issues have several possible causes. Here are the most prevalent ones for Covina residents:
- Standing water: Standing water around your home can threaten your foundation, especially when it collects in areas your gutter system doesn't protect.
- Aging plumbing: Covina has its fair share of older homes, with a median building year of 1961. Many of these properties use cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start to erode, leakage could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't done properly could result in your foundation settling.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can enter a home's foundation through crevices, and may create stress that causes your foundation breaking, pipes being damaged, and overall structural deterioration.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
To choose a foundation repair business, you should think about what's most important to you. Use this guide to help you navigate the process.
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. To further understand your contractor's experience, we recommend asking questions about what local codes apply to your project, how its team will draft plans and pull permits, and how the company inspects foundations.
Another way to measure a company's reputation is to look at its website. There, you can learn how long it's been in business and its trade qualifications. It might also share insights and knowledge through blog posts, podcasts, or videos.
Customer Reviews
When you're researching a company's standing, head to its Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile. There, you can find its rating and a list of customer reviews, both complaints and positive experiences. Complaints aren't necessarily a red flag in themselves. You want to discover how a company handles them. If the management team proactively and consistently resolves issues, it's a good sign. However, if the company lacks accreditation, shows more negative reviews than positive ones, and doesn't communicate well, you should think twice about working with it.
Lastly, we recommend you search different websites, like Trustpilot and Google, for other reviews.
Foundation Repair Cost in Covina
Foundation repair costs can range quite widely based on the extent of the problems and what must be done to fix them. For minor foundation fissuring and settling problems, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is significant damage, the average cost will be around $2,700. More involved jobs involving excavation, helical piers, or extensive concrete leveling could run you $6,800. Below are the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $325 |
Leak Repair | $2,572 |
Stabilization | $4,426 |
Underpinning | $1,248 |
Waterproofing | $2,837 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Covina
How much does foundation repair cost in Covina?
What are some signs I need foundation waterproofing?
Note that there are two kinds of waterproofing. Interior waterproofing involves installing sump pumps and drains or using sealants around a crawlspace. Outdoor waterproofing is usually less expensive. It involves installing exterior drains and forming physical barriers between your foundation and lawn.
How long does foundation repair usually take?
What preventive measures can I take to avoid foundation issues?
- Ensure your home's gutters and downspouts are in good condition and direct water away from your foundation to prevent water accumulation.
- Irrigate the soil around your foundation consistently, especially during dry spells, to prevent expansion and shrinking.
- If possible, grade the soil around your home to angle away from your foundation, promoting water drainage and minimizing the risk of foundation issues.
- Inspect your foundation for signs of damage, and fix any issues promptly.
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)