Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Fairfield
A home in Fairfield might experience foundation issues for a variety of reasons. Some are unique to the local environment, while others are widespread nationwide. They include:
- Drought conditions: Fairfield is prone to drought. The lack of rainfall and varying humidity levels each season lead to ever-shifting soil. The resulting soil settlement can shift and break your foundation.
- Improper modifications: Landscaping or roofing work that wasn't completed to standard could result in your foundation settling.
- Aging plumbing: While many Fairfield homes are fairly new, some still use cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start to erode, leakage could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can intrude into a home's foundation through cracks, and may apply force that leads to your foundation fracturing, pipes being damaged, and overall structural deterioration.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Your home's structural integrity depends greatly on its foundation. It's crucial to hire the top professionals possible. Center your research on these features:
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. Talk to staff to gain further insight into a company's experience. You should ask about local building codes, permit ordinances and inspection processes.
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 accreditations. It might also share knowledge and insights through blog posts, podcasts, or videos.
Customer Reviews
When you're researching a company's standing, go to its Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile. There, you can find its rating and a list of customer reviews, both positive experiences and complaints. Complaints aren't necessarily a red flag in themselves. You want to discover how a company responds to them. If the management team consistently and proactively resolves issues, it's a good sign. However, if the company lacks accreditation, shows more negative reviews than positive ones, and doesn't communicate effectively, you should think twice about working with it.
Finally, we recommend you search additional sites, like Trustpilot and Google, for more opinions.
Foundation Repair Cost in Fairfield
The cost of foundation repair can vary quite a bit depending on the severity of the issues and what needs to be done to address them. For minor foundation fissures and settling issues, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is substantial damage, the average cost will likely fall around $3,000. More complex jobs involving excavation, helical piers, or concrete leveling could cost $6,900 or more. Below are the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $358 |
Leak Repair | $2,891 |
Stabilization | $5,018 |
Underpinning | $1,372 |
Waterproofing | $3,195 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Fairfield
How much does foundation repair cost in Fairfield?
When would I need a foundation replacement, and when could I just get a repair?
Is foundation repair covered under my homeowners insurance?
Will foundation repair disrupt my daily routine while the work's being done?
That said, foundation repair crews use industrial machinery, and you'll occasionally experience loud noises or vibrations. If either of these will disturb you, you might prefer to leave and return when the crew is finished.
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)