Common Causes of Foundation Problems in University City
Foundation issues have a few possible causes. Here are the top ones for University City residents:
- Improper modifications: Landscaping or roofing work that wasn't done to standard could result in your foundation settling.
- Standing water: Water accumulation around your home can harm your foundation, especially when it gathers in areas your gutters don't protect.
- Aging plumbing: University City has its fair share of older homes, with a median building year of 1952. Many of these properties use cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start to erode, leaking water could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can enter a home's foundation through crevices, and may apply force that causes your foundation cracking, pipes leaking, and overall structural deterioration.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
When choosing a foundation contractor, you should consider your personal priorities. Ask each provider on your list about the following qualities.
Licensing and Experience
Missouri doesn't issue contractor licenses, but foundation repair companies must still register with the Secretary of State. Local governments often have their own licensing requirements for contractors. 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.
Contractor websites are excellent places to do your research. Typically, a business will mention how long it's been in business. It might also upload other content to assist potential clients.
Customer Reviews
When you're researching a company's reputation, check out 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. Remember that complaints don't necessarily mean a contractor is unqualified. BBB comments also show how companies resolve complaints. A responsive team that aims to achieve positive outcomes is a good one. Steer clear of a company if you don't see good communication about problems.
Foundation Repair Cost in University City
The cost of foundation repair can differ significantly depending on the scale of the issues and what needs to be done to resolve them. For minor foundation cracking and settling issues, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is more significant deterioration, the average cost will likely fall around $2,500. More complex jobs involving excavation, helical piers, or major mudjacking could cost $6,700 or more. Below are the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $300 |
Leak Repair | $2,333 |
Stabilization | $3,983 |
Underpinning | $1,154 |
Waterproofing | $2,568 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in University City
How much does foundation repair cost in University City?
When would I need a foundation replacement, and when could I just get a repair?
How long does foundation repair usually take?
What are some "red flags" indicating a foundation company to avoid?
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)