Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Glen Burnie
Some common reasons why Glen Burnie homeowners encounter foundation problems include:
- Improper modifications: Landscaping or roofing work that wasn't performed to standard could lead to your foundation settling.
- Standing water: Water accumulation around your home can be menacing to your foundation's integrity, especially when it gathers in areas your gutter system doesn't protect.
- Soil composition: Soil with large sand or clay concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Glen Burnie gets, the soil absorbs moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction stresses nearby foundations, even if the foundations keep dry.
- Aging plumbing: The average Glen Burnie 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.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Your home's stability weighs heavily on its foundation. It's essential to choose the best team possible. Center your research on these qualities:
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. You can also get a sense of a company's experience through the details its representatives share. Inquire about its inspection methods, local codes, permit-pulling procedures, and fees.
Another way to measure a company's standing is to check its website. There, you can learn how long it's been in business and its trade credentials. It might also share knowledge and insights 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 reported satisfaction or filed complaints. Pay special attention to what customers say about company warranties. Remember that negative feedback doesn't necessarily mean a contractor is unqualified. BBB comments also show how companies address complaints. A proactive team that aims to achieve excellent outcomes is a good one. Steer clear of a company if you don't see effective communication about problems.
Foundation Repair Cost in Glen Burnie
Foundation repair costs can differ significantly based on the scale of the problems and what must be done to fix them. For minor foundation fissuring and settling issues, you may pay as little as $1,900. However, if there is significant destruction, the average cost will be around $3,800. More intricate jobs involving tunneling, helical piers, or extensive concrete leveling could run you $7,200. This table shows the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $430 |
Leak Repair | $3,581 |
Stabilization | $6,297 |
Underpinning | $1,641 |
Waterproofing | $3,969 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Glen Burnie
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Glen Burnie?
What's the time to complete a typical foundation repair job?
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.
- Water the soil around your foundation consistently, especially during dry spells, to prevent expansion and shrinking.
- If possible, grade the soil around your home to slope away from your foundation, promoting water drainage and reducing the risk of foundation issues.
- Check your foundation for signs of damage, and fix any issues promptly.
Will foundation repair disrupt my daily routine while the work's being done?
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More Foundation Resources
National Foundation Repair Ranking Methodology
Sources
U.S. Census Bureau (American Communities Survey)