Best 5 Foundation Repair Companies in Schenectady, NY

Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Schenectady

A home in Schenectady might experience foundation issues for numerous reasons. Some are unique to the local environment, while others are widespread nationwide. They include:

• Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plunge, topsoil freezes rapidly and lower layers can't expand, pushing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
• Aging plumbing: Schenectady 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 eroding, leakage could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
• Soil composition: Soil with large sand or clay concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Schenectady receives, the soil absorbs moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction stresses nearby foundations, even if the foundations stay dry.
• Improper modifications: Landscaping or roofing work that wasn't done to standard could lead to your foundation settling.
• Tree Roots: Tree roots can enter a home's foundation through crevices, and may apply force that causes your foundation breaking, pipes rupturing, and overall structural deterioration.

How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company

Your home's structural integrity weighs heavily on its foundation. It's crucial to select the best team possible. Center your research on these characteristics:

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 representatives to gain further insight into a company's experience. You should ask about local inspection processes, building codes and permit ordinances.

One of the best ways to evaluate a company's reputation is to go to its website. Look for the company's years in business and the qualifications its team holds. Many top companies publish educational content for prospective customers.

Customer Reviews

Before selecting a company, review 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 incompetent. BBB comments also show how companies address complaints. A proactive team that strives for positive outcomes is a good one. Steer clear of a company if you don't see effective communication about problems.

Foundation Repair Cost in Schenectady

The price of foundation repair can vary substantially depending on the degree of the issues and what's necessary to resolve them. For minor foundation fissures and settling issues, you may pay as little as $1,900. However, if there is significant deterioration, the average cost lands at about $3,200. More intricate projects involving tunneling, helical piers, or major mudjacking could cost upwards of $7,000. See below the average foundation repair costs for common issues.