Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Hempstead
A few common reasons why Hempstead homeowners suffer from foundation troubles include:
- Improper modifications: Landscaping or roofing work that wasn't completed properly could result in your foundation settling.
- Soil composition: Soil with large clay or sand concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Hempstead experiences, 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.
- Standing water: Pooling water around your home can harm your foundation's integrity, especially when it gathers in areas your gutters don't protect.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can intrude into a home's foundation through cracks, and may create stress that results in your foundation fracturing, pipes leaking, and overall structural weakening.
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
New York's state government doesn't issue contracting licenses, but cities often choose to require them of foundation companies and other builders. For example, New York City requires foundation and excavating contractors to obtain a "Safety Registration Number" with a concrete work endorsement. They also need to register as a general contractor or home improvement contractor. Talk to staff to gain additional insight into a company's experience. You should ask about local building codes, permit ordinances and inspection processes.
Another way to gauge 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 knowledge and insights through blog posts, podcasts, or videos.
Customer Reviews
We recommend checking the company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile to determine whether it's accredited and has a positive customer review score. You can see whether other homeowners have expressed 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 responds to 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 properly, you should think twice about working with it.
Lastly, we recommend you search different websites, like Trustpilot and Google, for other reviews.
Foundation Repair Cost in Hempstead
The price of foundation repair can differ quite significantly depending on the degree of the issues and what's necessary to resolve them. For minor foundation fracturing and settling issues, you may pay as little as $2,000. However, if there is considerable damage, the average cost falls at about $4,300. More involved projects involving digging, helical piers, or major mudjacking could cost upwards of $7,300. Below are the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $481 |
Leak Repair | $4,080 |
Stabilization | $7,221 |
Underpinning | $1,836 |
Waterproofing | $4,528 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Hempstead
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Hempstead?
When do I need to waterproof my foundation?
Note that there are two kinds of waterproofing. Interior waterproofing involves installing sump pumps and drains or using sealants around a crawlspace. Exterior waterproofing is typically less expensive. It involves installing exterior drains and establishing physical barriers between your foundation and yard.
How long does foundation repair usually take?
Do Hempstead foundation repair companies offer warranties or guarantees?
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)