Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Frederick
A few factors can lead to foundation issues. Here are the most widespread ones for Frederick residents:
- Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plunge, topsoil freezes rapidly and lower layers can't expand, pushing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
- Soil composition: Soil with large clay or sand concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Frederick gets, the soil soaks up moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction puts pressure on nearby foundations, even if the foundations keep dry.
- Aging plumbing: While many Frederick homes are fairly new, some still use cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start eroding, leaking water could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't done to standard could lead to your foundation settling.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Your home's foundation is vital to its stability, so it's important to work with a top-notch foundation repair provider. Assess each provider using the following factors:
Licensing and Experience
In Maryland, the state Department of Labor licenses all foundation repair companies. There are strict requirements to get and keep a license. Business owners must have two years of industry experience, pass a trade exam, submit business filings and proof of insurance, and clear a financial audit. Subcontractors working your foundation job don't need a license if they're working for a licensed contractor. Talk to representatives to gain more insight into a company's experience. You should ask about local inspection processes, building codes and permit ordinances.
One of the most effective ways to evaluate a company's reputation is to explore its website. Look for how long the company has operated and what credentials its team holds. Many top companies offer educational content for prospective customers.
Customer Reviews
We recommend checking the company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile to determine whether it's accredited and has a high customer review score. You can check whether other homeowners have expressed satisfaction or filed complaints. Pay special attention to what customers say about company warranties. Complaints don't mean a contractor is unreliable. BBB reviews show how the company handled complaints. It's a good sign if the company has settled issues appropriately and proactively. You should avoid a company with numerous negative reviews, no credentials, and no communication regarding issues.
Foundation Repair Cost in Frederick
The price of your foundation repair project can vary substantially based on the extent of the issues and what needs to be fixed. For minor foundation cracking and settling issues, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is substantial damage, the average cost falls at about $2,800. More complex projects requiring digging, helical piers, or major mudjacking could cost $6,800+. See below the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $339 |
Leak Repair | $2,706 |
Stabilization | $4,674 |
Underpinning | $1,300 |
Waterproofing | $2,987 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Frederick
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Frederick?
What are some signs I need foundation waterproofing?
Note that there are two kinds of waterproofing. Interior waterproofing involves installing drains and sump pumps or using sealants around a cellar. Exterior waterproofing is typically less expensive. It involves installing exterior drains and establishing physical barriers between your foundation and yard.
Is foundation repair covered under my homeowners insurance?
What preventive measures can I take to avoid foundation issues?
- Make sure your home's gutters and downspouts are properly installed and direct water away from your foundation to avoid water accumulation.
- Irrigate the soil around your foundation evenly, especially during dry spells, to prevent shrinking and expansion.
- If possible, grade the soil around your home to slope away from your foundation, encouraging water drainage and minimizing the risk of foundation issues.
- Inspect your foundation for cracks, and fix 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)