Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Pawtucket
A few typical reasons why Pawtucket homeowners encounter foundation problems include:
- Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plunge, topsoil freezes rapidly and lower layers can't expand, forcing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
- Soil composition: Soil with large sand or clay concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Pawtucket receives, the soil absorbs moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction puts pressure on nearby foundations, even if the foundations stay dry.
- Standing water: Water accumulation around your home can threaten your foundation's integrity, especially when it collects in areas your drainage system doesn't reach.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can enter a home's foundation through crevices, and may create stress that causes your foundation cracking, pipes rupturing, and overall structural destabilization.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Choosing a foundation provider doesn't have to be complicated. We encourage you to jot down what you expect most in a company, then evaluate each contractor on your list against these attributes.
Licensing and Experience
Rhode Island requires foundation and concrete contractors to register with the State Building Office. To register, a company owner must prove they have minimum liability coverage, submit business filings, and take a five-hour course. You can also get a sense of a company's experience through the information its team gives you. Inquire about its inspection processes, local codes, permit-pulling procedures, and fees.
Contractor websites are excellent places to do your research. Typically, a business will discuss how long it's been in business. It might also upload blog posts to help interested parties.
Customer Reviews
When you're researching a company's standing, check out its Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile. There, you can find its rating and a list of customer reviews, both complaints and positive experiences. Complaints don't mean a contractor is unreliable. BBB reviews show how the company handled complaints. It's a good sign if the company has settled issues favorably and proactively. You should steer clear of a company with many negative reviews, no certifications, and no communication regarding issues.
Foundation Repair Cost in Pawtucket
Foundation repair costs can differ significantly based on the extent 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 quite substantial damage, the typical cost will be around $2,600. More involved jobs involving tunneling, helical piers, or major concrete leveling could run you $6,800. Below are the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $317 |
Leak Repair | $2,496 |
Stabilization | $4,286 |
Underpinning | $1,218 |
Waterproofing | $2,752 |
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 Pawtucket
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Pawtucket?
When do I need to waterproof my foundation?
- Mold and mildew
- Flooding
- Discoloration or odors
- Hairline cracks
- Uneven floors
- Plumbing leaks
Is foundation repair covered under my homeowners insurance?
What preventive measures can I take to avoid foundation issues?
- Ensure your home's gutters and downspouts are properly installed and direct water away from your foundation to prevent water accumulation.
- Irrigate the soil around your foundation evenly, especially during dry spells, to prevent shrinking and expansion.
- If possible, grade the soil around your home to angle away from your foundation, encouraging water drainage and reducing the risk of foundation issues.
- Inspect your foundation for cracks, and fix any issues immediately.
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)