Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Natick
Foundation issues have multiple possible causes. Here are the top ones for Natick residents:
- Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plummet, topsoil abruptly ices over and lower layers can't expand, pushing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
- Soil composition: Soil with large sand or clay concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Natick 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 stay dry.
- Improper modifications: Landscaping or roofing work that wasn't done to standard could lead to your foundation settling.
- Aging plumbing: Natick has its fair share of older homes, with a median building year of 1962. Many of these properties use cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start eroding, leaking water could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Your home's structural integrity weighs heavily on its foundation. It's vital to choose the most qualified crew possible. Focus your research on these features:
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 representatives to gain additional insight into a company's experience. You should ask about local permit ordinances, inspection processes and building codes.
One of the easiest ways to assess a company's reputation is to explore its website. Look for how long the company has operated and the qualifications its team holds. Many well-known companies offer educational content for prospective customers.
Customer Reviews
When you're researching a company's reputation, check out its Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile. There, you can find its "letter grade" rating and a list of customer reviews, both positive experiences and complaints. Complaints aren't necessarily a red flag in themselves. Instead, discover how a company manages 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 effectively, you should think twice about working with it.
Finally, we recommend you search different websites, such as Trustpilot and Google, for additional feedback.
Foundation Repair Cost in Natick
The cost of foundation repair can vary quite a bit depending on the extent of the issues and what needs to be done to address them. For minor foundation fractures and settling issues, you may pay as little as $1,900. However, if there is considerable damage, the average cost will likely fall around $3,400. More complex jobs involving digging, helical piers, or concrete leveling could cost $7,000 or more. 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 Natick
How much does foundation repair cost in Natick?
What are the different types of foundations in Natick?
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 prevent water accumulation.
- Irrigate the soil around your foundation evenly, especially during dry spells, to prevent expansion and shrinking.
- If possible, grade the soil around your home to angle away from your foundation, encouraging water drainage and reducing the risk of foundation issues.
- Inspect your foundation for cracks, and repair any issues immediately.
Are there telltale signs I should avoid a particular foundation company?
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More Foundation Resources
National Foundation Repair Ranking Methodology
Sources
U.S. Census Bureau (American Communities Survey)