Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Bristol
Foundation issues have some possible causes. Here are the top ones for Bristol residents:
- Improper modifications: Landscaping or roofing work that wasn't done properly could lead to your foundation settling.
- Soil composition: Soil with large sand or clay concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Bristol 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 keep dry.
- Aging plumbing: Bristol has its fair share of older homes, with a median building year of 1960. Many of these properties use cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start eroding, leakage could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Standing water: Water accumulation around your home can threaten your foundation, especially when it gathers in areas your drainage system doesn't cover.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
When choosing a foundation contractor, you should consider your personal priorities. Ask each provider on your list about the following qualities.
Licensing and Experience
According to the Pennsylvania Attorney General, foundation contractors must register with the commonwealth if they make between $5,000 and $50 million in annual revenue. Registration doesn't involve exams, but it does show a contractor meets bond, insurance, and background check requirements. To further understand your contractor's experience, we recommend asking questions about what local codes apply to your project, how the company inspects foundations, and how its team will draft plans and pull permits.
One of the easiest ways to assess a company's reputation is to find its website. Look for how long the company has operated and the qualifications its team holds. Many top companies offer educational content for potential customers.
Customer Reviews
When you're researching a company's reputation, check out its Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile. There, you can find its "letter grade" rating and a list of customer reviews, both complaints and positive experiences. Complaints aren't necessarily a red flag in themselves. You want to discover how a company responds to them. If the management team consistently and proactively resolves issues, it's a good sign. However, if the company lacks accreditation, shows more negative reviews than positive ones, and doesn't communicate effectively, you should avoid working with it.
Finally, we suggest you search additional sites, including Trustpilot and Google, for other reviews.
Foundation Repair Cost in Bristol
Foundation repair costs can vary substantially based on the scale of the problems and what must be done to fix them. For minor foundation cracking and settling issues, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is considerable deterioration, the normal cost will be around $3,100. More intricate jobs involving excavation, helical piers, or major concrete leveling could run you $6,900. Below are the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $359 |
Leak Repair | $2,899 |
Stabilization | $5,032 |
Underpinning | $1,375 |
Waterproofing | $3,204 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Bristol
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Bristol?
When do I need to waterproof my foundation?
- Uneven floors
- Hairline cracks
- Discoloration or odors
- Mold and mildew
- Plumbing leaks
- Flooding
Are there any warranties or guarantees provided with Bristol foundation repair services?
What preventive measures can I take to avoid foundation issues?
- Ensure your home's gutters and downspouts are in good condition and direct water away from your foundation to avoid water accumulation.
- Water the soil around your foundation evenly, especially during dry spells, to prevent shrinking and expansion.
- If possible, grade the soil around your home to slope away from your foundation, promoting water drainage and minimizing the risk of foundation issues.
- Check your foundation for signs of damage, and fix any issues promptly.
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)