Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Corpus Christi
A home in Corpus Christi might experience foundation issues for numerous reasons. Some are specific to the local environment, while others are widespread nationwide. They include:
- Aging plumbing: The average Corpus Christi home construction year is 1976. If you live in an older home, it's likely to have cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start to erode, leaking water could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Standing water: Standing water around your home can threaten your foundation's integrity, especially when it collects in areas your drainage system doesn't protect.
- Improper modifications: Landscaping or roofing work that wasn't done to standard could lead to your foundation settling.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
To choose a foundation repair company, you should consider what's most important to you. Use this guide to help you steer the process.
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 information its team gives you. Ask about permit-pulling procedures, fees, its inspection methods and local codes.
One of the best ways to evaluate a company's reputation is to explore its website. Look for how long the company has operated and the accreditations its team holds. Many prominent companies publish educational content for potential customers.
Customer Reviews
Before signing a contract with a company, review its online profile with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You can examine both positive reviews and complaints. Complaints aren't necessarily a red flag in themselves. Instead, discover how a company manages them. If the management team proactively and consistently resolves issues, it's a good sign. However, if the company lacks accreditation, has more negative reviews, and doesn't communicate properly, you should avoid working with it.
Lastly, we recommend you search different websites, including Trustpilot and Google, for other reviews.
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This Old House empowers homeowners with the knowledge and tools they need to tackle various projects and navigate the complexities of homeownership.
Corpus Christi Foundation Repair FAQ
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Corpus Christi?
You could spend about $3,000 on materials and labor for your foundation project. Ultimately, your expenses will depend on your specific needs and the extent of the issues.
How long does foundation repair usually take?
Foundation repair is usually a multi-day job, but the hands-on work takes less than a week. If your repair job involves new concrete, the crew might pause work for seven to ten days while it cures.
Will my homeowners insurance cover foundation repair?
Sometimes. Whether you'll have coverage depends on the types of policies you have and how the foundation damage occurred. Earthquake or flood insurance will typically cover foundation damage caused by those specific disasters. Homeowners insurance can cover damage from other disasters, but will not cover normal wear and tear. We recommend speaking with your insurance agent about the extent of your policy and how to file a claim.
What preventive measures can I take to avoid foundation issues?
You can take several preventive measures to reduce the chances of 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 shrinking and expansion.
- If possible, grade the soil around your home to slope away from your foundation, promoting water drainage and reducing the risk of foundation issues.
- Keep an eye on your foundation for cracks, 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)
