Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Kiryas Joel
Foundation issues have some possible causes. Here are the top ones for Kiryas Joel residents:
- Soil composition: Soil with large clay or sand concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Kiryas Joel gets, the soil soaks up moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction stresses nearby foundations, even if the foundations keep dry.
- Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plummet, topsoil freezes rapidly and lower layers can't expand, pushing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
- Improper modifications: Landscaping or roofing work that wasn't performed properly could lead to your foundation settling.
- Aging plumbing: The average Kiryas Joel home construction year is 1980. If you live in an older home, it's likely to have cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start to erode, leakage could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Standing water: Standing water around your home can be menacing to your foundation, especially when it gathers in areas your gutter system doesn't reach.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Your home's structural integrity relies on its foundation. It's crucial to choose the best team possible. Center your research on these attributes:
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. To further understand your contractor's experience, we recommend asking questions about what local codes apply to your project, how its team will draft plans and pull permits, and how the company inspects foundations.
Another way to measure a company's standing is to look at its website. There, you can learn how long it's been in business and its trade credentials. It might also share insights and knowledge through blog posts, podcasts, or videos.
Customer Reviews
We suggest reviewing the company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile to find out whether it's accredited and has a good customer review score. You can check whether other homeowners have reported satisfaction or filed complaints. Pay special attention to what customers say about company warranties. Complaints don't mean a contractor is bad news. BBB reviews show how the company dealt with complaints. It's a good sign if the company has resolved issues proactively and appropriately. You should steer clear of a company with many negative reviews, no accreditation, and no communication regarding issues.
Foundation Repair Cost in Kiryas Joel
Foundation repair costs can differ significantly based on the extent of the problems and what needs to be done to fix them. For minor foundation cracking and settling concerns, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is significant destruction, the average cost will be around $2,600. More intricate jobs involving digging, helical piers, or extensive concrete leveling could run you $6,800. Below are the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $319 |
Leak Repair | $2,512 |
Stabilization | $4,315 |
Underpinning | $1,224 |
Waterproofing | $2,770 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Kiryas Joel
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Kiryas Joel?
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 generally less expensive. It involves installing exterior drains and creating physical barriers between your foundation and lawn.
What preventive measures can I take to avoid foundation issues?
- Make sure your home's gutters and downspouts are properly installed and direct water away from your foundation to prevent water accumulation.
- Irrigate 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, encouraging water drainage and minimizing the risk of foundation issues.
- Check your foundation for cracks, and address any issues immediately.
Are there telltale signs I should avoid a particular foundation company?
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)