Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Flint
A few factors can contribute to foundation issues. These are the most widespread ones for Flint residents:
- Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plunge, topsoil abruptly ices over and lower layers can't expand, forcing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
- Aging plumbing: Flint has its fair share of older homes, with a median building year of 1965. Many of these properties use cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start eroding, leaking water could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Standing water: Standing water around your home can be menacing to your foundation, especially when it collects in areas your drainage system doesn't protect.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can intrude into a home's foundation through crevices, and may create stress that leads to your foundation cracking, pipes rupturing, and overall structural deterioration.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
To select a foundation repair business, you should think about what's most important to you. Use this list of factors to help you go through the process.
Licensing and Experience
Michigan foundation repair companies need a Residential Builder license, a Residential Maintenance & Alteration Contractor license, or both. The state's Licensing and Regulatory Affairs department oversees new applications. It also administrates continuing education required of all contractors. Talk to team members to gain further insight into a company's experience. You should ask about local inspection processes, building codes and permit ordinances.
Another way to assess a company's reputation is to look at its website. There, you can learn how long it's been in business and its trade credentials. It might also share insights and knowledge through blog posts, podcasts, or videos.
Customer Reviews
When you're researching a company's standing, visit 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 don't mean a contractor is unreliable. BBB reviews show how the company handled complaints. It's a positive sign if the company has resolved issues favorably and proactively. You should steer clear of a company with many negative reviews, no credentials, and no communication regarding issues.
Foundation Repair Cost in Flint
The cost of foundation repair can range quite widely based on the scale of the problems and what must be done to fix them. For minor foundation fracturing and settling issues, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is quite substantial deterioration, the normal cost will be around $3,000. More intricate jobs involving excavation, helical piers, or major concrete leveling could run you $6,900. Below are the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $349 |
Leak Repair | $2,805 |
Stabilization | $4,859 |
Underpinning | $1,339 |
Waterproofing | $3,099 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Flint
How much does foundation repair cost in Flint?
Can a foundation always be fixed?
When do I need to waterproof my foundation?
Note that there are two kinds of waterproofing. Interior waterproofing involves installing drains and sump pumps or using sealants around a basement. Outdoor waterproofing is usually less expensive. It involves installing exterior drains and establishing physical barriers between your foundation and lawn.
What preventive measures can I take to avoid foundation issues?
- Make sure your home's gutters and downspouts are in good condition and direct water away from your foundation to avoid water accumulation.
- Water the soil around your foundation consistently, especially during dry spells, to prevent shrinking and expansion.
- 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 signs of damage, and repair any issues immediately.
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More Foundation Resources
National Foundation Repair Ranking Methodology
Sources
U.S. Census Bureau (American Communities Survey)