Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Stonecrest
A few factors can lead to foundation issues. Here are the most prevalent ones for Stonecrest residents:
- Soil composition: Soil with large sand or clay concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Stonecrest receives, the soil soaks up moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction presses against nearby foundations, even if the foundations keep dry.
- Aging plumbing: While many Stonecrest 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.
- Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't performed properly could lead to your foundation settling.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can encroach on a home's foundation through crevices, and may exert pressure that results in your foundation cracking, pipes being damaged, and overall structural deterioration.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
When choosing a foundation contractor, you should consider your personal priorities. Ask each company on your list about the following qualities.
Licensing and Experience
In Georgia, foundation companies may be licensed as general or specialty contractors. If a company holds a specialty license, it can only perform jobs within its Secretary of State-assigned classifications. Classifications are task-specific, including such specialties as concrete tilt-up, grading, and masonry. You can also get a sense of a company's experience through the information its team gives you. Ask about its inspection methods, local codes, permit-pulling procedures, and fees.
Another way to assess a company's reputation is to check its website. There, you can learn how long it's been in business and its trade accreditations. It might also share knowledge and insights through blog posts, podcasts, or videos.
Customer Reviews
When you're researching a company's reputation, visit its Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile. There, you can find its "letter grade" rating and a list of customer reviews, both positive experiences and complaints. Remember that complaints don't necessarily mean a contractor is unqualified. The BBB shows how companies handle complaints. A proactive team that strives for amicable outcomes is a good one. Avoid a company if you don't see effective communication about problems.
Foundation Repair Cost in Stonecrest
Foundation repair costs can differ significantly based on the scale of the problems and what must be done to fix them. For minor foundation fracturing and settling problems, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is considerable damage, the normal cost will be around $2,900. More involved jobs involving tunneling, 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 | $340 |
Leak Repair | $2,714 |
Stabilization | $4,689 |
Underpinning | $1,303 |
Waterproofing | $2,996 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Stonecrest
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Stonecrest?
What are some signs I need foundation waterproofing?
- Mold and mildew
- Discoloration or odors
- Uneven floors
- Flooding
- Hairline cracks
- Plumbing leaks
How long does foundation repair usually take?
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 avoid water accumulation.
- Water the soil around your foundation evenly, 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.
- Inspect your foundation for signs of damage, and address any issues immediately.
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More Foundation Resources
National Foundation Repair Ranking Methodology
Sources
U.S. Census Bureau (American Communities Survey)