Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Mount Vernon
Some common reasons why Mount Vernon homeowners experience foundation issues include:
- Soil composition: Soil with large clay or sand concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Mount Vernon 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.
- Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't done to standard could lead to your foundation settling.
- Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plunge, topsoil freezes rapidly and lower layers can't expand, pushing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can encroach on a home's foundation through crevices, and may apply force that leads to your foundation breaking, pipes rupturing, and overall structural weakening.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Choosing a foundation provider doesn't have to be challenging. We encourage you to write down what you desire most in a provider, then evaluate each company on your selection against 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. You can also get a sense of a company's experience through the information its team gives you. Ask about its inspection processes, local building regulations, permit-pulling procedures, and fees.
Contractor websites are among the best places to do your research. Usually, a business will discuss how long it's been in business. It might also upload blog posts to assist interested parties.
Customer Reviews
We suggest examining the company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile to find out whether it's accredited and has a positive customer review score. You can see whether other homeowners have shared satisfaction or filed complaints. Pay special attention to what customers say about company warranties. Remember that complaints don't necessarily mean a contractor is incompetent. BBB reviews also show how companies resolve complaints. A proactive team that strives for excellent outcomes is a good one. Steer clear of a contractor if you don't see clear communication about problems.
Foundation Repair Cost in Mount Vernon
Foundation repair costs can range quite widely based on the extent of the problems and what needs to be done to fix them. For minor foundation fissuring and settling concerns, you may pay as little as $1,900. However, if there is quite substantial deterioration, the typical cost will be around $3,500. More complex jobs involving tunneling, helical piers, or major concrete leveling could run you $7,100. See below the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $399 |
Leak Repair | $3,288 |
Stabilization | $5,753 |
Underpinning | $1,527 |
Waterproofing | $3,640 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Mount Vernon
How much does foundation repair cost in Mount Vernon?
What are the different types of foundations in Mount Vernon?
Will my homeowners insurance cover foundation repair?
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 consistently, especially during dry spells, to prevent expansion and shrinking.
- If possible, grade the soil around your home to slope away from your foundation, encouraging water drainage and minimizing the risk of foundation issues.
- Check your foundation for cracks, and fix 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)