Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Olney
A few factors can contribute to foundation issues. Here are the most widespread ones for Olney residents:
- Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plummet, topsoil freezes rapidly and lower layers can't expand, pushing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
- Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't done to standard could result in your foundation settling.
- Standing water: Water accumulation around your home can be a menace to your foundation's integrity, especially when it collects in areas your gutters don't protect.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can encroach on a home's foundation through cracks, and may create stress that leads to your foundation fracturing, pipes rupturing, and overall structural deterioration.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Choosing a foundation contractor doesn't have to be difficult. 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
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 staff to gain additional insight into a company's experience. You should ask about local permit ordinances, inspection processes and building codes.
Contractor websites are some of the best places to do your research. Usually, a foundation company will display how long it's been in the industry. It might also share articles to assist prospective customers.
Customer Reviews
Before selecting a company, examine its online profile with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You can examine both complaints and positive reviews. Remember that complaints don't necessarily mean a contractor is incompetent. BBB comments also show how companies resolve complaints. A responsive team that aims to achieve excellent outcomes is a good one. Don't work with a business if you don't see clear communication about problems.
Foundation Repair Cost in Olney
The cost of foundation repair can vary quite a bit depending on the scale of the issues and what needs to be done to address them. For minor foundation cracking and settling issues, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is more significant damage, the average cost will likely fall around $2,700. More complex jobs involving digging, helical piers, or major mudjacking could cost $6,800 or more. This table shows the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
| Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Crack Repair | $327 |
| Leak Repair | $2,588 |
| Stabilization | $4,456 |
| Underpinning | $1,254 |
| Waterproofing | $2,855 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Olney
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Olney?
What's the most popular foundation type in Olney?
Is foundation repair covered under my homeowners insurance?
Do I need to leave my home for foundation repair work?
That said, foundation repair crews operate industrial machinery, and you'll occasionally experience loud noises or tremors. If either of these will disturb you, you might prefer to leave and return when the crew is finished.
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)
