Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Springfield
A few factors can lead to foundation issues. Here are the most prevalent ones for Springfield residents:
- Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plunge, topsoil abruptly ices over 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 lead to your foundation settling.
- Soil composition: Soil with large clay or sand concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Springfield experiences, the soil soaks up moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction puts pressure on nearby foundations, even if the foundations stay dry.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can intrude into a home's foundation through cracks, and may exert pressure that leads to your foundation cracking, pipes leaking, and overall structural deterioration.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
To choose a foundation repair contractor, you should think about what's most important to you. Use this list of attributes to help you go through the process.
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 how the company inspects foundations, what local codes apply to your project, and how its team will draft plans and pull permits.
Another way to evaluate a company's reputation is to check its website. There, you can learn how long it's been in business and its trade qualifications. It might also share knowledge and insights through blog posts, podcasts, or videos.
Customer Reviews
When you're researching a company's credibility, go 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. Instead, discover how a company handles them. If the management team consistently and proactively resolves issues, it's a good sign. However, if the company lacks accreditation, has more negative reviews, and doesn't communicate properly, you should avoid working with it.
Finally, we recommend you search other platforms, including Trustpilot and Google, for additional feedback.
Foundation Repair Cost in Springfield
The cost of foundation repair can vary substantially based on the degree of the problems and what must be done to fix them. For minor foundation fissuring and settling issues, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is significant deterioration, the typical cost will be around $3,100. More involved jobs involving tunneling, helical piers, or major concrete leveling could run you $6,900. This table shows the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $359 |
Leak Repair | $2,901 |
Stabilization | $5,036 |
Underpinning | $1,376 |
Waterproofing | $3,206 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Springfield
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Springfield?
When would I need a foundation replacement, and when could I just get a repair?
What's the most popular foundation type in Springfield?
How long does foundation repair usually take?
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)