Common Causes of Foundation Problems in West New York
Foundation issues have some possible causes. Here are the most frequent ones for West New York residents:
- Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't performed properly could result in your foundation settling.
- Soil composition: Soil with large clay or sand concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall West New York experiences, the soil absorbs moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction puts pressure on nearby foundations, even if the foundations keep dry.
- Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plunge, topsoil abruptly ices over and lower layers can't expand, forcing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
- Aging plumbing: West New York has its fair share of older homes, with a median building year of 1962. Many of these properties use cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start eroding, leakage could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
To select a foundation repair company, you should determine what's most important to you. Use this guide to help you go through the process.
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. You can also get a sense of a company's experience through the details its representatives share. Ask about its inspection methods, local code requirements, permit-pulling procedures, and fees.
Contractor websites are excellent places to do your research. Typically, a company will discuss how long it's been in business. It might also publish articles to assist interested parties.
Customer Reviews
Before choosing a company, examine its online profile with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You can examine both complaints and positive reviews. Remember that complaints don't necessarily mean a contractor is unqualified. BBB comments also show how companies handle complaints. A proactive team that aims to achieve positive outcomes is a good one. Avoid a contractor if you don't see clear communication about problems.
Foundation Repair Cost in West New York
The price of your foundation repair project can vary substantially depending on the scale of the issues and what needs to be fixed. For minor foundation cracking and settling problems, you may pay as little as $1,900. However, if there is substantial deterioration, the normal cost is about $3,500. More intricate projects requiring tunneling, helical piers, or major mudjacking could cost $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 West New York
How much does foundation repair cost in West New York?
What are the different types of foundations in West New York?
What preventive measures can I take to avoid foundation issues?
- Ensure your home's gutters and downspouts are properly installed and direct water away from your foundation to prevent 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 angle away from your foundation, promoting water drainage and minimizing the risk of foundation issues.
- Check your foundation for cracks, and repair any issues immediately.
Do I need to leave my home for foundation repair work?
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More Foundation Resources
National Foundation Repair Ranking Methodology
Sources
U.S. Census Bureau (American Communities Survey)