Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Portland
Some typical reasons why Portland homeowners deal with foundation problems include:
- Improper modifications: Landscaping or roofing work that wasn't performed properly could lead to your foundation settling.
- Aging plumbing: The average Portland home construction year is 1969. If you live in an older home, it's likely to have cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start eroding, leaking water 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 Portland receives, the soil soaks up moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction presses against nearby foundations, even if the foundations keep dry.
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
Oregon foundation repair companies need either a Residential General Contractor or Residential Specialty Contractor license from the state Construction Contractors Board. To further understand your contractor's experience, we recommend asking questions about how the company inspects foundations, what local codes apply to your project, and how its team will draft plans and pull permits.
Contractor websites are some of the best places to do your research. Typically, a foundation company will display how long it's been operating. It might also publish other content to assist potential clients.
Customer Reviews
We advise looking into the company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile to see whether it's accredited and has a good 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. Complaints don't mean a contractor is bad news. BBB reviews show how the company addressed complaints. It's a good sign if the company has fixed issues proactively and appropriately. You should stay away from a company with many negative reviews, no accreditation, and no communication regarding issues.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Portland
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Portland?
What are some signs I need foundation waterproofing?
- Flooding
- Uneven floors
- Discoloration or odors
- Mold and mildew
- Hairline cracks
- Plumbing leaks
Do Portland foundation repair companies offer warranties or guarantees?
What are some "red flags" indicating a foundation company to avoid?
More Foundation Resources
National Foundation Repair Ranking Methodology
Sources
U.S. Census Bureau (American Communities Survey)