Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Grafton
A few factors can lead to foundation issues. Here are the most common ones for Grafton residents:
- Improper modifications: Landscaping or roofing work that wasn't done properly could lead to your foundation settling.
- Standing water: Water accumulation around your home can be menacing to your foundation, especially when it collects in areas your gutters don't cover.
- Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plummet, topsoil freezes rapidly and lower layers can't expand, pushing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can encroach on a home's foundation through crevices, and may create stress that results in your foundation cracking, pipes leaking, and overall structural destabilization.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
To select a foundation repair business, you should consider what's most important to you. Use this list of factors to help you go through the process.
Licensing and Experience
Illinois doesn't issue contractor licenses at the state level, but larger cities in the Land of Lincoln will usually have their own licensing requirements and exams. We recommend contacting your local government office for more information before you begin your company search. To further understand your contractor's experience, we recommend asking questions about what local codes apply to your project, how the company inspects foundations, and how its team will draft plans and pull permits.
Another way to determine a company's credibility is to check its website. There, you can learn how long it's been in business and its trade qualifications. It might also share insights and knowledge through blog posts, podcasts, or videos.
Customer Reviews
Before choosing a company, check its online profile with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You can examine both positive reviews and complaints. Negative feedback doesn't mean a contractor is unreliable. BBB reviews show how the company addressed complaints. It's a positive sign if the company has fixed issues appropriately and proactively. You should stay away from a company with numerous negative reviews, no licensure, and no communication regarding issues.
Foundation Repair Cost in Grafton
Foundation repair costs can vary substantially based on the extent of the problems and what needs to be done to fix them. For minor foundation fissuring and settling issues, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is quite substantial destruction, the average cost will be around $3,100. More complex jobs involving digging, helical piers, or major concrete leveling could run you $6,900. This table shows the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
| Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Crack Repair | $360 |
| Leak Repair | $2,907 |
| Stabilization | $5,047 |
| Underpinning | $1,378 |
| Waterproofing | $3,213 |
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 Grafton
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Grafton?
When do I need to waterproof my foundation?
Note that there are two kinds of waterproofing. Interior waterproofing involves installing drains and sump pumps or using sealants around a basement. Exterior waterproofing is usually less expensive. It involves installing exterior drains and establishing physical barriers between your foundation and lawn.
How long does foundation repair usually take?
Are there telltale signs I should avoid a particular foundation company?
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)
