Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Baytown
A few typical reasons why Baytown homeowners deal with foundation problems include:
- Soil composition: Soil with large sand or clay concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Baytown gets, 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 stay dry.
- Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't done to standard could result in your foundation settling.
- Standing water: Pooling water around your home can threaten your foundation, especially when it gathers in areas your gutters don't reach.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can intrude into a home's foundation through crevices, and may apply force that leads to your foundation cracking, pipes being damaged, and overall structural deterioration.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
When choosing a foundation repair company, you should consider your personal priorities. Ask each company on your list about the following qualities.
Licensing and Experience
In Texas, local governments can choose to require contractor's licenses. Even some major cities do not require licensure to alter or repair foundations. We recommend contacting your local officials to learn more about contractor and building standards. You can also get a sense of a company's experience through the details its representatives share. Inquire about its inspection methods, local codes, permit-pulling procedures, and fees.
Contractor websites are excellent places to do your research. Typically, a business will show how long it's been in the industry. It might also share blog posts to help interested parties.
Customer Reviews
Before committing to a company, examine its online profile with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You can examine both complaints and positive reviews. Negative feedback doesn't mean a contractor is unreliable. BBB reviews show how the company dealt with complaints. It's a good sign if the company has settled issues proactively and appropriately. You should steer clear of a company with more negative reviews, no certifications, and no communication regarding issues.
Foundation Repair Cost in Baytown
The cost of foundation repair can range quite widely based on the scale of the problems and what must be done to fix them. For minor foundation fracturing and settling concerns, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is significant deterioration, the average cost will be around $3,100. More intricate jobs involving excavation, helical piers, or major concrete leveling could run you $6,900. This table shows the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $363 |
Leak Repair | $2,941 |
Stabilization | $5,110 |
Underpinning | $1,392 |
Waterproofing | $3,251 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Baytown
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Baytown?
Will my homeowners insurance cover foundation repair?
Are there any warranties or guarantees provided with Baytown foundation repair services?
What preventive measures can I take to avoid foundation issues?
- Make sure your home's gutters and downspouts are properly installed and direct water away from your foundation to prevent water accumulation.
- Water the soil around your foundation evenly, especially during dry spells, to prevent expansion and shrinking.
- If possible, grade the soil around your home to angle away from your foundation, promoting water drainage and reducing the risk of foundation issues.
- Check your foundation for cracks, and repair 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)