Best 5 Foundation Repair Companies in Duluth, MN

Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Duluth

Foundation issues have a few possible causes. Here are the most prevalent ones for Duluth residents:

• Aging plumbing: The average Duluth home construction year is 1969. If you live in an older home, it's likely to have cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start to erode, leaking water could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
• Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plunge, topsoil abruptly ices over and lower layers can't expand, pushing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
• Standing water: Pooling water around your home can be a menace to your foundation's integrity, especially when it gathers in areas your gutter system doesn't reach.
• Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't done properly could lead to your foundation settling.
• Tree Roots: Tree roots can intrude into a home's foundation through cracks, and may create stress that leads to your foundation cracking, pipes leaking, and overall structural destabilization.

How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company

Choosing a foundation company doesn't have to be difficult. We encourage you to list what you expect most in a provider, then evaluate each contractor on your list 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. Talk to representatives to gain further insight into a company's experience. You should ask about local inspection processes, building codes and permit ordinances.

Another way to determine 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 knowledge and insights through blog posts, podcasts, or videos.

Customer Reviews

When you're researching a company's reputation, visit its Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile. There, you can find its rating and a list of customer reviews, both complaints and positive experiences. Remember that negative feedback doesn't necessarily mean a contractor is unqualified. The BBB shows how companies address complaints. A responsive team that aims to achieve excellent outcomes is a good one. Steer clear of a company if you don't see good communication about problems.

Foundation Repair Cost in Duluth

The cost of foundation repair can vary substantially based on the extent of the problems and what needs to be done to fix them. For minor foundation fracturing and settling problems, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is considerable destruction, the normal cost will be around $3,000. More involved jobs involving excavation, helical piers, or extensive concrete leveling could run you $6,900. This table shows the average foundation repair costs for common issues.