Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Northfield
A home in Northfield might experience foundation issues for numerous reasons. Some are specific to the local environment, while others are prevalent nationwide. They include:
- Standing water: Pooling water around your home can threaten your foundation, especially when it gathers in areas your drainage system doesn'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.
- Aging plumbing: The average Northfield home construction year is 1968. If you live in an older home, it's likely to have cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start to erode, leakage could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't completed properly could result in your foundation settling.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can enter a home's foundation through crevices, and may create stress that leads to your foundation breaking, pipes rupturing, and overall structural deterioration.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Choosing a foundation contractor doesn't have to be complicated. We encourage you to list what you desire most in a contractor, then evaluate each company on your list 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 staff to gain more insight into a company's experience. You should ask about local inspection processes, building codes and permit ordinances.
Another way to evaluate a company's standing 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
We recommend looking into the company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile to determine whether it's accredited and has a high customer review score. You can see whether other homeowners have expressed 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 settled issues proactively and favorably. You should avoid a company with numerous negative reviews, no certifications, and no communication regarding issues.
Foundation Repair Cost in Northfield
The price of foundation repair can range widely depending on the scale of the issues and what's needed to resolve them. For minor foundation fissures and settling issues, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is significant deterioration, the typical cost is about $2,500. More involved projects involving tunneling, helical piers, or major mudjacking could cost upwards of $6,700. See below the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $303 |
Leak Repair | $2,357 |
Stabilization | $4,027 |
Underpinning | $1,164 |
Waterproofing | $2,595 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Northfield
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Northfield?
What's the most popular foundation type in Northfield?
Will my homeowners insurance cover foundation repair?
What preventive measures can I take to avoid foundation issues?
- Make sure your home's gutters and downspouts are in good condition and direct water away from your foundation to prevent 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 minimizing the risk of foundation issues.
- Keep an eye on your foundation for signs of damage, and repair any issues promptly.
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)