Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Akron
Some typical reasons why Akron homeowners encounter foundation issues include:
- Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plummet, topsoil freezes rapidly and lower layers can't expand, forcing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
- Standing water: Standing water around your home can threaten your foundation, especially when it collects in areas your drainage system doesn't reach.
- Aging plumbing: Akron has its fair share of older homes, with a median building year of 1962. Many of these properties use cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start eroding, leaking water could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't done properly could lead to your foundation settling.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Your home's foundation is vital to its structural integrity, so it's important to work with a trustworthy foundation repair firm. Evaluate each contractor using the following criteria:
Licensing and Experience
While Ohio doesn't regulate foundation repair companies at a state level, cities can choose to require licenses, exams, or continuing education. Contact the Akron city hall, Summit County, or your regional building district for more information about what's necessary. Talk to staff to gain further insight into a company's experience. You should ask about local building codes, inspection processes and permit ordinances.
One of the best ways to assess a company's reputation is to visit its website. Look for the company's years in business and the accreditations its team holds. Many leading companies offer educational content for potential customers.
Customer Reviews
Before signing a contract with a company, review its online profile with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You can examine both complaints and positive reviews. Complaints don't mean a contractor is bad news. BBB reviews show how the company handled complaints. It's a good sign if the company has resolved issues proactively and appropriately. You should stay away from a company with numerous negative reviews, no licensure, and no communication regarding issues.
Foundation Repair Cost in Akron
The cost of foundation repair can differ significantly depending on the severity of the issues and what needs to be done to address them. For minor foundation fractures and settling issues, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is substantial deterioration, the average cost will likely fall around $2,200. More complex jobs involving excavation, helical piers, or concrete leveling could cost $6,600 or more. This table shows the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
| Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Crack Repair | $276 |
| Leak Repair | $2,095 |
| Stabilization | $3,543 |
| Underpinning | $1,062 |
| Waterproofing | $2,302 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Foundation Repair Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Akron
How much does foundation repair cost in Akron?
Can a foundation always be fixed?
How long does foundation repair usually take?
Will foundation repair disrupt my daily routine while the work's being done?
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)
