Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Ocala
Some common reasons why Ocala homeowners suffer from foundation issues include:
- Soil composition: Soil with large sand or clay concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Ocala experiences, the soil soaks up moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction stresses nearby foundations, even if the foundations stay dry.
- Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't completed properly could result in your foundation settling.
- Standing water: Water accumulation around your home can harm your foundation, especially when it collects in areas your gutters don't cover.
- Aging plumbing: While many Ocala homes are fairly new, some still use cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start eroding, 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 create stress that leads to your foundation fracturing, pipes being damaged, and overall structural destabilization.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
When choosing a foundation company, you should consider your personal priorities. Ask each company on your list about the following qualities.
Licensing and Experience
Florida's contractor licensing system is rather unique. The state's Department of Business and Professional Regulation issues "certified" contractor licenses in building, general contracting, and residential construction that foundation companies must earn. There are also "registered" licenses issued at a local level. Talk to staff to gain additional insight into a company's experience. You should ask about local building codes, permit ordinances and inspection processes.
Contractor websites are excellent places to do your research. Typically, a company will mention how long it's been in the industry. It might also publish blog posts to help prospective customers.
Customer Reviews
We advise examining the company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile to find out whether it's accredited and has a positive customer review score. You can see whether other homeowners have shared satisfaction or filed complaints. Pay special attention to what customers say about company warranties. Negative feedback doesn't mean a contractor is bad news. BBB reviews show how the company dealt with complaints. It's a good sign if the company has resolved issues appropriately and proactively. You should steer clear of a company with more negative reviews, no licensure, and no communication regarding issues.
Foundation Repair Cost in Ocala
The price of foundation repair can vary substantially depending on the scale of the issues and what's needed to resolve them. For minor foundation fissures and settling concerns, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is significant damage, the average cost lands at about $2,500. More complex projects involving tunneling, helical piers, or major mudjacking could cost upwards of $6,700. This table shows the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $306 |
Leak Repair | $2,383 |
Stabilization | $4,075 |
Underpinning | $1,174 |
Waterproofing | $2,624 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Ocala
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Ocala?
What are some signs I need foundation waterproofing?
Note that there are two kinds of waterproofing. Interior waterproofing involves installing drains and sump pumps or using sealants around a basement. Outdoor waterproofing is usually less expensive. It involves installing exterior drains and creating physical barriers between your foundation and yard.
How long does foundation repair usually take?
What are some "red flags" indicating a foundation company to avoid?
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More Foundation Resources
National Foundation Repair Ranking Methodology
Sources
U.S. Census Bureau (American Communities Survey)