Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Torrington
Foundation issues have some possible causes. Here are the top ones for Torrington residents:
- Improper modifications: Landscaping or roofing work that wasn't done properly could result in your foundation settling.
- Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plunge, topsoil freezes rapidly and lower layers can't expand, forcing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
- Soil composition: Soil with large sand or clay concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Torrington experiences, 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.
- Aging plumbing: Torrington has its fair share of older homes, with a median building year of 1964. Many of these properties use cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start to erode, leakage could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Your home's structural integrity weighs heavily on its foundation. It's important to choose the most qualified crew possible. Center your research on these qualities:
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 the details its representatives share. Ask about its inspection methods, local code requirements, permit-pulling procedures, and fees.
Contractor websites are some of the best places to do your research. Usually, a company will discuss how long it's been operating. It might also upload blog posts to help prospective customers.
Customer Reviews
When you're researching a company's credibility, visit its Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile. There, you can find its "letter grade" rating and a list of customer reviews, both complaints and positive experiences. Complaints don't mean a contractor is unreliable. BBB reviews show how the company dealt with complaints. It's a positive sign if the company has resolved issues appropriately and proactively. You should stay away from a company with many negative reviews, no certifications, and no communication regarding issues.
Foundation Repair Cost in Torrington
Foundation repair costs can differ significantly based on the scale of the problems and what needs to be done to fix them. For minor foundation cracking and settling problems, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is quite substantial deterioration, the normal cost will be around $2,600. More involved jobs involving tunneling, helical piers, or major concrete leveling could run you $6,700. Below are the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $310 |
Leak Repair | $2,426 |
Stabilization | $4,156 |
Underpinning | $1,191 |
Waterproofing | $2,674 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Torrington
How much does foundation repair cost in Torrington?
When do I need to waterproof my foundation?
- Discoloration or odors
- Mold and mildew
- Hairline cracks
- Plumbing leaks
- Flooding
- Uneven floors
Are there telltale signs I should avoid a particular foundation company?
Will foundation repair disrupt my daily routine while the work's being done?
That said, foundation repair crews operate heavy 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)