Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Oakley
Some common reasons why Oakley homeowners encounter foundation woes include:
- Aging plumbing: While many Oakley homes are fairly new, some still use cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start eroding, leaking water could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Improper modifications: Landscaping or roofing work that wasn't performed to standard could lead to your foundation settling.
- Standing water: Standing water around your home can be a menace to your foundation, especially when it collects in areas your gutter system doesn't reach.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can intrude into a home's foundation through cracks, and may create stress that results in your foundation fracturing, pipes leaking, and overall structural weakening.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Choosing a foundation provider doesn't have to be difficult. We encourage you to jot down what you expect most in a company, then evaluate each company on your selection against these characteristics.
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 the company inspects foundations, and how its team will draft plans and pull permits.
One of the most effective 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 top companies provide educational content for potential customers.
Customer Reviews
Before selecting a company, review its online profile with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You can examine both positive reviews and complaints. Remember that complaints don't necessarily mean a contractor is unqualified. BBB reviews also show how companies resolve complaints. A responsive team that works toward amicable outcomes is a good one. Avoid a business if you don't see good communication about problems.
Foundation Repair Cost in Oakley
The price of foundation repair can vary substantially depending on the severity of the issues and what must be fixed. For minor foundation fissures and settling problems, you may pay as little as $1,900. However, if there is considerable damage, the typical cost is about $3,200. More complex projects requiring tunneling, helical piers, or major mudjacking could cost $7,000+. Below are the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $370 |
Leak Repair | $3,009 |
Stabilization | $5,236 |
Underpinning | $1,418 |
Waterproofing | $3,327 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Foundation Repair Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Oakley
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Oakley?
When would I need a foundation replacement, and when could I just get a repair?
What's the time to complete a typical foundation repair job?
Are there telltale signs I should avoid a particular foundation company?
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)