Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Middletown
A few factors can contribute to foundation issues. These are the most common ones for Middletown residents:
- Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plunge, topsoil freezes rapidly and lower layers can't expand, forcing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
- Aging plumbing: The average Middletown home construction year is 1972. 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.
- Soil composition: Soil with large sand or clay concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Middletown gets, the soil absorbs moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction stresses nearby foundations, even if the foundations stay dry.
- Standing water: Pooling water around your home can harm your foundation's integrity, especially when it collects in areas your gutter system doesn't protect.
- Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't performed to standard could lead to your foundation settling.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Choosing a foundation provider doesn't have to be complicated. We encourage you to list what you desire most in a provider, then evaluate each company on your shortlist against these attributes.
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. You can also get a sense of a company's experience through what its representatives say. Ask about its inspection methods, local codes, permit-pulling procedures, and fees.
Another way to determine 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 insights and knowledge through blog posts, podcasts, or videos.
Customer Reviews
Before signing a contract with a company, review its online profile with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You can examine both complaints and positive reviews. Remember that negative feedback doesn't necessarily mean a contractor is unqualified. BBB reviews also show how companies handle complaints. A proactive team that works toward amicable outcomes is a good one. Don't work with a business if you don't see clear communication about problems.
Foundation Repair Cost in Middletown
The price of your foundation repair project can range widely depending on the severity of the issues and what needs to be fixed. For minor foundation fissures and settling concerns, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is considerable deterioration, the normal cost lands at about $2,900. More involved projects requiring digging, helical piers, or major mudjacking could cost $6,900+. Below are the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $341 |
Leak Repair | $2,728 |
Stabilization | $4,715 |
Underpinning | $1,308 |
Waterproofing | $3,011 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Middletown
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Middletown?
Can a foundation always be fixed?
What's the most popular foundation type in Middletown?
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 consistently, especially during dry spells, to prevent shrinking and expansion.
- If possible, grade the soil around your home to angle away from your foundation, promoting water drainage and reducing the risk of foundation issues.
- Keep an eye on your foundation for cracks, 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)