Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Marion
Foundation issues have multiple possible causes. Here are the most prevalent ones for Marion residents:
- Improper modifications: Landscaping or roofing work that wasn't completed properly could result in your foundation settling.
- Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plummet, topsoil freezes rapidly and lower layers can't expand, forcing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
- Standing water: Standing water around your home can threaten your foundation's integrity, especially when it gathers in areas your gutter system doesn't cover.
- Aging plumbing: The average Marion home construction year is 1973. If you live in an older home, it's likely to have cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start eroding, leaking water could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Choosing a foundation company doesn't have to be complicated. We encourage you to jot down what you want most in a contractor, then evaluate each contractor on your shortlist against these characteristics.
Licensing and Experience
If an Iowa foundation company makes more than $2,000 per year, it must register with the state's Division of Labor. Registration doesn't require exams or continuing education. All it proves is that a company holds insurance and pays state taxes. However, cities in the Hawkeye State might still require licenses or practical training for foundation companies. Talk to staff to gain additional insight into a company's experience. You should ask about local permit ordinances, building codes and inspection processes.
Contractor websites are some of the best places to do your research. Typically, a company will mention how long it's been in business. It might also upload articles to assist interested parties.
Customer Reviews
When you're researching a company's credibility, visit its Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile. There, you can find its rating and a list of customer reviews, both positive experiences and complaints. Negative feedback doesn't mean a contractor is bad news. BBB reviews show how the company dealt with complaints. It's a positive sign if the company has settled issues appropriately and proactively. You should stay away from a company with many negative reviews, no licensure, and no communication regarding issues.
Foundation Repair Cost in Marion
The cost of foundation repair can vary quite a bit depending on the scale of the issues and what needs to be done to resolve them. For minor foundation fractures and settling issues, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is considerable deterioration, the average cost will likely fall around $2,700. More complex jobs involving excavation, helical piers, or concrete leveling could cost $6,800 or more. Below are the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $325 |
Leak Repair | $2,566 |
Stabilization | $4,415 |
Underpinning | $1,245 |
Waterproofing | $2,830 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Marion
How much does foundation repair cost in Marion?
How long does foundation repair usually take?
Is foundation repair covered under my homeowners insurance?
What preventive measures can I take to avoid foundation issues?
- Ensure your home's gutters and downspouts are in good condition and direct water away from your foundation to avoid water accumulation.
- Water the soil around your foundation consistently, 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.
- Check your foundation for cracks, and address any issues immediately.
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)