Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Old Bridge
A few factors can contribute to foundation issues. These are the most prevalent ones for Old Bridge residents:
- Aging plumbing: The average Old Bridge home construction year is 1972. 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.
- Soil composition: Soil with large clay or sand concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Old Bridge receives, the soil soaks up moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction puts pressure on nearby foundations, even if the foundations stay dry.
- Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't completed properly could result in your foundation settling.
- Standing water: Water accumulation around your home can harm your foundation's integrity, especially when it collects in areas your gutter system doesn't cover.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Choosing a foundation company doesn't have to be challenging. We encourage you to write down what you desire most in a provider, then evaluate each provider on your shortlist against these qualities.
Licensing and Experience
New Jersey requires home improvement contractors, including foundation companies, to register with the state's Division of Consumer Affairs. They're also required to apply for a home repair contractor license with the Department of Banking and Insurance, which regulates the financial business of construction work. 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.
One of the simplest ways to evaluate a company's reputation is to go to its website. Look for the company's years in business and the accreditations its team holds. Many leading companies offer educational content for prospective customers.
Customer Reviews
When you're researching a company's standing, go to its Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile. There, you can find its "letter grade" rating and a list of customer reviews, both positive experiences and complaints. Complaints don't mean a contractor is unreliable. BBB reviews show how the company addressed complaints. It's a good sign if the company has resolved issues favorably and proactively. You should steer clear of a company with many negative reviews, no licensure, and no communication regarding issues.
Foundation Repair Cost in Old Bridge
Foundation repair costs can vary substantially based on the extent of the problems and what must be done to fix them. For minor foundation fracturing and settling concerns, you may pay as little as $1,900. However, if there is significant deterioration, the typical cost will be around $3,500. More involved jobs involving tunneling, helical piers, or major concrete leveling could run you $7,100. Below are the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $406 |
Leak Repair | $3,356 |
Stabilization | $5,879 |
Underpinning | $1,553 |
Waterproofing | $3,716 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Old Bridge
How much does foundation repair cost in Old Bridge?
What's the most popular foundation type in Old Bridge?
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 prevent 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 slope away from your foundation, promoting water drainage and minimizing the risk of foundation issues.
- Keep an eye on your foundation for signs of damage, and address any issues promptly.
Will foundation repair disrupt my daily routine while the work's being done?
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More Foundation Resources
National Foundation Repair Ranking Methodology
Sources
U.S. Census Bureau (American Communities Survey)