Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Merrillville
A home in Merrillville might experience foundation issues for various reasons. Some are unique to the local environment, while others are widespread nationwide. They include:
- Aging plumbing: The average Merrillville home construction year is 1976. If you live in an older home, it's likely to have cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start to erode, leaking water could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plummet, topsoil abruptly ices over and lower layers can't expand, forcing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
- Improper modifications: Landscaping or roofing work that wasn't completed to standard could result in your foundation settling.
- Standing water: Standing water around your home can harm your foundation's integrity, especially when it gathers in areas your drainage system doesn't cover.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can intrude into a home's foundation through cracks, and may exert pressure that leads to your foundation cracking, pipes leaking, and overall structural weakening.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Your home's foundation is crucial to its stability, so it's important to work with a top-notch foundation repair contractor. Evaluate each contractor using the following factors:
Licensing and Experience
Indiana foundation repair companies don't need a state license to operate. However, local governments can and often do establish their own requirements, exams, and codes. Before you begin your company search, it's best to contact your city hall and learn about what's required. Talk to staff to gain more insight into a company's experience. You should ask about local building codes, inspection processes and permit ordinances.
Another way to determine a company's reputation is to examine its website. There, you can learn how long it's been in business and its trade credentials. It might also share insights and knowledge through blog posts, podcasts, or videos.
Customer Reviews
Before selecting a company, check its online profile with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You can examine both complaints and positive reviews. Negative feedback doesn't mean a contractor is bad news. BBB reviews show how the company addressed complaints. It's a good sign if the company has settled issues proactively and favorably. You should steer clear of a company with numerous negative reviews, no licensure, and no communication regarding issues.
Foundation Repair Cost in Merrillville
Foundation repair costs can vary substantially based on the extent 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 significant damage, the average cost will be around $2,700. More involved jobs involving excavation, helical piers, or major concrete leveling could run you $6,800. See below the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $320 |
Leak Repair | $2,526 |
Stabilization | $4,341 |
Underpinning | $1,230 |
Waterproofing | $2,785 |
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 Merrillville
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Merrillville?
Can a foundation always be fixed?
What's the time to complete a typical foundation repair job?
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)