Common Causes of Foundation Problems in McHenry
Foundation issues have a few possible causes. Here are the most prevalent ones for McHenry residents:
- Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plummet, topsoil abruptly ices over and lower layers can't expand, pushing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
- Aging plumbing: The average McHenry home construction year is 1981. If you live in an older home, it's likely to have cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start eroding, leakage could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Standing water: Standing water around your home can threaten your foundation's integrity, especially when it gathers in areas your drainage system doesn't reach.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can encroach on a home's foundation through cracks, and may apply force that causes your foundation cracking, pipes leaking, and overall structural destabilization.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Choosing a foundation provider doesn't have to be complicated. We encourage you to write down what you desire most in a company, then evaluate each provider on your selection against these attributes.
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. Talk to team members to gain additional insight into a company's experience. You should ask about local inspection processes, building codes and permit ordinances.
Another way to measure a company's credibility 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
When you're researching a company's standing, check out 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. Negative feedback doesn'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 proactively and appropriately. You should stay away from a company with numerous negative reviews, no accreditation, and no communication regarding issues.
Foundation Repair Cost in McHenry
Foundation repair costs can range quite widely based on the scale of the problems and what must be done to fix them. For minor foundation cracking and settling concerns, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is quite substantial deterioration, the average cost will be around $3,100. More intricate jobs involving tunneling, 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 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in McHenry
What will I pay to repair my foundation in McHenry?
What are some signs I need foundation waterproofing?
- Hairline cracks
- Plumbing leaks
- Uneven floors
- Flooding
- Discoloration or odors
- Mold and mildew
Do McHenry foundation repair companies offer warranties or guarantees?
Will foundation repair disrupt my daily routine while the work's being done?
That said, foundation repair crews operate heavy equipment, and you'll occasionally experience loud noises or tremors. 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)