Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Islip
A few factors can contribute to foundation issues. These are the most widespread ones for Islip residents:
- Soil composition: Soil with large sand or clay concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Islip gets, the soil absorbs moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction presses against nearby foundations, even if the foundations stay dry.
- Aging plumbing: Islip has its fair share of older homes, with a median building year of 1964. Many of these properties use cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start to erode, leakage could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't completed to standard could lead to your foundation settling.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Your home's foundation is crucial to its structural integrity, so it's important to work with a quality foundation repair provider. Evaluate each firm using the following criteria:
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. SYNTAX ERROR IN: You can also get a sense of a company's experience through [RandomChoice||what its representatives say|the information its team gives you|the details its representatives share]. [RandomChoice||Ask|Inquire] about {"its [RandomChoice||inspection processes|inspection methods], [RandomChoice||local codes|local code requirements|local building regulations], permit-pulling procedures, fees"|shuffle_list("and")}.
Contractor websites are some of the best places to do your research. Usually, a foundation company will show how long it's been in the industry. It might also publish articles to help interested parties.
Customer Reviews
When you're researching a company's reputation, head to 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 negative feedback doesn't necessarily mean a contractor is unqualified. BBB reviews also show how companies resolve complaints. A proactive team that strives for positive outcomes is a good one. Steer clear of a contractor if you don't see good communication about problems.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Islip
How much does foundation repair cost in Islip?
What's the time to complete a typical foundation repair job?
Is foundation repair covered under my homeowners insurance?
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 avoid water accumulation.
- Irrigate the soil around your foundation consistently, especially during dry spells, to prevent expansion and shrinking.
- If possible, grade the soil around your home to slope away from your foundation, promoting water drainage and minimizing the risk of foundation issues.
- Inspect your foundation for cracks, and repair any issues immediately.
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)