Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Apple Valley
A few factors can contribute to foundation issues. Here are the most common ones for Apple Valley residents:
- Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plunge, topsoil freezes rapidly and lower layers can't expand, forcing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
- Aging plumbing: While many Apple Valley homes are fairly new, some still use cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start eroding, leaking water could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't performed properly could lead to your foundation settling.
- Standing water: Water accumulation around your home can harm your foundation, especially when it collects in areas your drainage system doesn't cover.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Choosing a foundation contractor doesn't have to be difficult. We encourage you to write down what you want most in a contractor, then evaluate each contractor on your selection against these qualities.
Licensing and Experience
Minnesota foundation repair companies need both a residential building contractor and residential remodeler license from the Department of Labor and Industry. The former license lets a company work on new construction, while the latter allows it to modify and repair existing foundations. Business owners need to take 14 hours of continuing education to renew a license. If a contractor makes less than $15,000 from foundation work, they can apply for a Certificate of Exemption and do not need a 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 assess a company's credibility is to look at its website. There, you can learn how long it's been in business and its trade accreditations. It might also share insights and knowledge through blog posts, podcasts, or videos.
Customer Reviews
Before committing to a company, examine its online profile with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You can examine both complaints and positive reviews. Remember that negative feedback doesn't necessarily mean a contractor is incompetent. BBB comments also show how companies resolve complaints. A responsive team that works toward amicable outcomes is a good one. Don't work with a business if you don't see clear communication about problems.
Foundation Repair Cost in Apple Valley
The cost of foundation repair can range widely depending on the scale of the issues and what needs to be done to address them. For minor foundation cracking and settling issues, you may pay as little as $1,900. However, if there is more significant damage, the average cost will likely fall around $3,800. More complex jobs involving excavation, helical piers, or concrete leveling could cost $7,200 or more. Below are the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $436 |
Leak Repair | $3,639 |
Stabilization | $6,404 |
Underpinning | $1,664 |
Waterproofing | $4,034 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Apple Valley
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Apple Valley?
What are the different types of foundations in Apple Valley?
Do Apple Valley foundation repair companies offer warranties or guarantees?
Are there telltale signs I should avoid a particular foundation company?
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)