Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Marlborough
Foundation issues have multiple possible causes. Here are the most prevalent ones for Marlborough residents:
- Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plummet, topsoil freezes rapidly and lower layers can't expand, forcing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
- Soil composition: Soil with large clay or sand concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Marlborough receives, the soil soaks up moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction stresses nearby foundations, even if the foundations keep dry.
- Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't completed properly could lead to your foundation settling.
- Standing water: Water accumulation around your home can be menacing to your foundation, especially when it gathers in areas your gutter system doesn't cover.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can enter a home's foundation through crevices, and may create stress that results in your foundation cracking, pipes being damaged, and overall structural weakening.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
When choosing a foundation company, you should consider your personal priorities. Ask each contractor on your list about the following qualities.
Licensing and Experience
According to the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation, foundation repair companies need at least a Home Improvement Contractor license to work in the commonwealth. For larger jobs and work that requires subcontracting, they'll also need a Construction Supervisor's License. Talk to staff to gain additional 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 go to its website. Look for how long the company has operated and the accreditations its team holds. Many top companies provide educational content for future customers.
Customer Reviews
When you're researching a company's credibility, head to its Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile. There, you can find its "letter grade" rating and a list of customer reviews, both complaints and positive experiences. Complaints aren't necessarily a red flag in themselves. You want to discover how a company handles them. If the management team proactively and consistently resolves issues, it's a good sign. However, if the company lacks accreditation, has an abundance of negative feedback, and doesn't communicate properly, you should think twice about working with it.
Finally, we encourage you to search different websites, like Trustpilot and Google, for additional feedback.
Foundation Repair Cost in Marlborough
The price of foundation repair can range widely depending on the scale of the issues and what's required to resolve them. For minor foundation fracturing and settling problems, you may pay as little as $1,900. However, if there is considerable damage, the normal cost is about $3,400. More complex projects involving excavating, helical piers, or major mudjacking could cost upwards of $7,000. This table shows the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $389 |
Leak Repair | $3,186 |
Stabilization | $5,565 |
Underpinning | $1,487 |
Waterproofing | $3,526 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Marlborough
How much does foundation repair cost in Marlborough?
What are the different types of foundations in Marlborough?
What's the time to complete a typical foundation repair job?
Will my homeowners insurance cover foundation repair?
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More Foundation Resources
National Foundation Repair Ranking Methodology
Sources
U.S. Census Bureau (American Communities Survey)