Common Causes of Foundation Problems in York
A home in York might experience foundation issues for numerous reasons. Some are unique to the local environment, while others are prevalent 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.
- Standing water: Standing water around your home can threaten your foundation's integrity, especially when it gathers in areas your gutter system doesn't protect.
- Aging plumbing: The average York home construction year is 1972. 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.
- Improper modifications: Landscaping or roofing work that wasn't done properly could lead to your foundation settling.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can enter a home's foundation through crevices, and may apply force that results in your foundation cracking, pipes rupturing, and overall structural deterioration.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Choosing a foundation company doesn't have to be difficult. We encourage you to list what you want most in a provider, then evaluate each company on your selection against these 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. Talk to representatives to gain further insight into a company's experience. You should ask about local permit ordinances, building codes and inspection processes.
Contractor websites are some of the best places to do your research. Usually, a business will discuss how long it's been in business. It might also upload blog posts to help potential clients.
Customer Reviews
When you're researching a company's credibility, head to 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. Negative feedback doesn't mean a contractor is bad news. BBB reviews show how the company handled complaints. It's a positive sign if the company has fixed issues favorably and proactively. You should avoid a company with numerous negative reviews, no licensure, and no communication regarding issues.
Foundation Repair Cost in York
The cost of foundation repair can differ significantly depending on the severity of the issues and what needs to be done to resolve them. For minor foundation cracking and settling issues, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is substantial deterioration, the average cost will likely fall around $2,300. More complex jobs involving excavation, helical piers, or major mudjacking could cost $6,700 or more. This table shows the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $285 |
Leak Repair | $2,185 |
Stabilization | $3,709 |
Underpinning | $1,097 |
Waterproofing | $2,403 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in York
How much does foundation repair cost in York?
What are the different types of foundations in York?
What are some signs I need foundation waterproofing?
Note that there are two kinds of waterproofing. Interior waterproofing involves installing drains and sump pumps or using sealants around a cellar. Outdoor waterproofing is typically less expensive. It involves installing exterior drains and creating physical barriers between your foundation and yard.
Will my homeowners insurance cover foundation repair?
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More Foundation Resources
National Foundation Repair Ranking Methodology
Sources
U.S. Census Bureau (American Communities Survey)