Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Greenwich
A few factors can contribute to foundation issues. Here are the most common ones for Greenwich residents:
- Aging plumbing: Greenwich 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.
- Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plunge, topsoil abruptly ices over and lower layers can't expand, forcing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
- Soil composition: Soil with large clay or sand concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Greenwich receives, the soil absorbs moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction puts pressure on nearby foundations, even if the foundations keep dry.
- Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't completed to standard could result in your foundation settling.
- Standing water: Water accumulation around your home can threaten your foundation, especially when it gathers in areas your drainage system doesn't reach.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Your home's foundation is essential to its stability, so it's important to work with a trustworthy foundation repair company. Evaluate each company using the following criteria:
Licensing and Experience
In Connecticut, foundation repair companies need at least a Home Improvement Contractor license from the Department of Consumer Protection for work valued at over $200. Applicants must prove that they have at least $20,000 in liability insurance. Talk to representatives to gain further insight into a company's experience. You should ask about local inspection processes, permit ordinances and building codes.
Contractor websites are among the best places to do your research. Usually, a company will disclose how long it's been in the industry. It might also publish articles to help interested parties.
Customer Reviews
We advise reviewing the company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile to see whether it's accredited and has a positive customer review score. You can check whether other homeowners have expressed satisfaction or filed complaints. Pay special attention to what customers say about company warranties. Remember that negative feedback doesn't necessarily mean a contractor is unqualified. BBB reviews also show how companies handle complaints. A proactive team that strives for positive outcomes is a good one. Don't work with a business if you don't see good communication about problems.
Foundation Repair Cost in Greenwich
Foundation repair costs can range quite widely based on the degree of the problems and what must be done to fix them. For minor foundation fracturing and settling concerns, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is considerable deterioration, the typical cost will be around $2,600. More involved jobs involving excavation, helical piers, or major 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 | $318 |
Leak Repair | $2,506 |
Stabilization | $4,304 |
Underpinning | $1,222 |
Waterproofing | $2,763 |
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 Greenwich
How much does foundation repair cost in Greenwich?
How long does foundation repair usually take?
Do Greenwich foundation repair companies offer warranties or guarantees?
What preventive measures can I take to avoid foundation issues?
- Make sure your home's gutters and downspouts are properly installed and direct water away from your foundation to prevent water accumulation.
- Water the soil around your foundation evenly, 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 reducing the risk of foundation issues.
- Check your foundation for cracks, and repair 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)