Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Youngstown
A home in Youngstown might experience foundation issues for various reasons. Some are unique to the local environment, while others are common nationwide. They include:
- Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plummet, topsoil abruptly ices over and lower layers can't expand, pushing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
- Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't done properly could lead to your foundation settling.
- Standing water: Standing water around your home can be a menace to your foundation's integrity, especially when it gathers in areas your drainage system doesn't reach.
- Aging plumbing: Youngstown has its fair share of older homes, with a median building year of 1961. Many of these properties use cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start to erode, leakage could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can enter a home's foundation through crevices, and may apply force that leads to your foundation fracturing, pipes being damaged, and overall structural deterioration.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
When choosing a foundation contractor, you should consider your personal priorities. Ask each company on your list about the following qualities.
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 Youngstown city hall, Mahoning County, or your regional building district for more information about what's necessary. You can also get a sense of a company's experience through what its representatives say. Inquire about its inspection methods, local code requirements, permit-pulling procedures, and fees.
One of the simplest ways to evaluate a company's reputation is to visit its website. Look for how long the company has operated and the accreditations its team holds. Many well-known companies provide educational content for future customers.
Customer Reviews
We suggest reviewing the company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile to determine whether it's accredited and has a positive customer review score. You can check whether other homeowners have expressed satisfaction or filed complaints. Pay special attention to what customers say about company warranties. Remember that complaints don't necessarily mean a contractor is unqualified. BBB comments also show how companies handle complaints. A proactive team that aims to achieve amicable outcomes is a good one. Steer clear of a contractor if you don't see good communication about problems.
Foundation Repair Cost in Youngstown
The price of foundation repair can differ quite significantly depending on the degree of the issues and what's needed to resolve them. For minor foundation fracturing and settling issues, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is considerable damage, the average cost falls at about $2,400. More intricate projects involving digging, helical piers, or major mudjacking could cost upwards of $6,700. Below are the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $297 |
Leak Repair | $2,303 |
Stabilization | $3,927 |
Underpinning | $1,143 |
Waterproofing | $2,535 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Youngstown
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Youngstown?
What are some signs I need foundation waterproofing?
- Plumbing leaks
- Uneven floors
- Mold and mildew
- Hairline cracks
- Flooding
- Discoloration or odors
Will my homeowners insurance cover foundation repair?
What are some "red flags" indicating a foundation company to avoid?
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)