Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Medford
A home in Medford might experience foundation issues for multiple reasons. Some are specific to the local environment, while others are widespread nationwide. They include:
- Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plunge, 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 be menacing to your foundation, especially when it collects in areas your gutters don't cover.
- Soil composition: Soil with large clay or sand concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Medford gets, the soil soaks up moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction presses against nearby foundations, even if the foundations keep dry.
- Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't completed to standard could result in your foundation settling.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can intrude into a home's foundation through cracks, and may apply force that results in your foundation cracking, pipes being damaged, and overall structural weakening.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Choosing a foundation company doesn't have to be challenging. We encourage you to write down what you expect most in a provider, then evaluate each company on your shortlist against these 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. To further understand your contractor's experience, we recommend asking questions about what local codes apply to your project, how the company inspects foundations, and how its team will draft plans and pull permits.
One of the most effective ways to evaluate a company's reputation is to go to its website. Look for the company's years in business and the qualifications its team holds. Many well-known companies publish educational content for potential customers.
Customer Reviews
We advise reviewing the company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile to determine whether it's accredited and has a positive customer review score. You can see whether other homeowners have expressed 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 incompetent. BBB comments also show how companies address complaints. A responsive team that aims to achieve positive outcomes is a good one. Avoid a business if you don't see effective communication about problems.
Foundation Repair Cost in Medford
The price of foundation repair can vary substantially depending on the degree of the issues and what's needed to resolve them. For minor foundation fissures and settling problems, you may pay as little as $1,900. However, if there is significant damage, the typical cost lands at about $3,400. More complex projects involving digging, 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 Medford
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Medford?
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Are there any warranties or guarantees provided with Medford foundation repair services?
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)