Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Olive Branch
A home in Olive Branch might experience foundation issues for various reasons. Some are specific to the local environment, while others are common nationwide. They include:
- Soil composition: Soil with large sand or clay concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Olive Branch experiences, the soil absorbs moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction stresses nearby foundations, even if the foundations stay dry.
- Improper modifications: Landscaping or roofing work that wasn't done properly could lead to your foundation settling.
- Aging plumbing: While many Olive Branch homes are fairly new, some still use cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start to erode, leakage could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Standing water: Water accumulation around your home can be menacing to your foundation's integrity, especially when it gathers in areas your gutters don't cover.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
When choosing a foundation repair company, you should consider your personal priorities. Ask each contractor on your list about the following qualities.
Licensing and Experience
The Mississippi State Board of Contractors licenses foundation repair companies that make money over a legal threshold. For new construction, the threshold is $50,000, and for remodeling, it is $10,000. Your foundation company will likely have a "Concrete" classification, which requires the business owner to pass a trade exam. Talk to representatives to gain further insight into a company's experience. You should ask about local building codes, permit ordinances and inspection processes.
Another way to assess 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 insights and knowledge through blog posts, podcasts, or videos.
Customer Reviews
We suggest looking into the company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile to find out whether it's accredited and has a positive customer review score. You can see whether other homeowners have shared satisfaction or filed complaints. Pay special attention to what customers say about company warranties. Complaints aren't necessarily a red flag in themselves. You want to discover how a company handles them. If the management team proactively and consistently resolves issues, it's a good sign. However, if the company lacks accreditation, has more negative reviews, and doesn't communicate effectively, you should think twice about working with it.
Lastly, we recommend you search other platforms, including Trustpilot and Google, for additional feedback.
Foundation Repair Cost in Olive Branch
Foundation repair costs can differ significantly based on the degree of the problems and what needs to be done to fix them. For minor foundation fissuring and settling problems, you may pay as little as $1,700. However, if there is considerable deterioration, the average cost will be around $1,900. More complex jobs involving digging, helical piers, or extensive concrete leveling could run you $6,500. Below are the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $247 |
Leak Repair | $1,814 |
Stabilization | $3,022 |
Underpinning | $952 |
Waterproofing | $1,987 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Olive Branch
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Olive Branch?
What are the different types of foundations in Olive Branch?
Will my homeowners insurance cover foundation repair?
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 evenly, especially during dry spells, to prevent shrinking and expansion.
- If possible, grade the soil around your home to slope away from your foundation, encouraging water drainage and reducing the risk of foundation issues.
- Keep an eye on your foundation for cracks, and fix any issues promptly.
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)