Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Suffolk
A home in Suffolk might experience foundation issues for a variety of reasons. Some are unique to the local environment, while others are widespread nationwide. They include:
- Soil composition: Soil with large sand or clay concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Suffolk receives, the soil soaks up moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction puts pressure on nearby foundations, even if the foundations keep dry.
- Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't completed to standard could lead to your foundation settling.
- Standing water: Pooling water around your home can be a menace to your foundation, especially when it gathers in areas your drainage system doesn't cover.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can enter a home's foundation through cracks, and may create stress that causes your foundation cracking, pipes leaking, and overall structural weakening.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
When choosing a foundation repair company, you should consider your personal priorities. Ask each provider on your list about the following qualities.
Licensing and Experience
The Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation issues licenses to foundation repair companies. The license a company has determines what work it can do and what size projects it can handle. Talk to team members to gain further insight into a company's experience. You should ask about local permit ordinances, inspection processes and building codes.
Another way to gauge a company's credibility is to look at its website. There, you can learn how long it's been in business and its trade accreditations. It might also share insights and knowledge through blog posts, podcasts, or videos.
Customer Reviews
We recommend examining the company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile to see whether it's accredited and has a positive customer review score. You can see whether other homeowners have reported satisfaction or filed complaints. Pay special attention to what customers say about company warranties. Complaints don't mean a contractor is bad news. BBB reviews show how the company addressed complaints. It's a good sign if the company has settled issues proactively and favorably. You should stay away from a company with many negative reviews, no licensure, and no communication regarding issues.
Foundation Repair Cost in Suffolk
The price of foundation repair can vary substantially depending on the degree of the issues and what's required to resolve them. For minor foundation fissures and settling concerns, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is substantial deterioration, the typical cost falls at about $3,000. More involved projects involving digging, helical piers, or major mudjacking could cost upwards of $6,900. This table shows the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $358 |
Leak Repair | $2,889 |
Stabilization | $5,014 |
Underpinning | $1,371 |
Waterproofing | $3,193 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Suffolk
How much does foundation repair cost in Suffolk?
What are some signs I need foundation waterproofing?
- Flooding
- Plumbing leaks
- Hairline cracks
- Discoloration or odors
- Mold and mildew
- Uneven floors
How long does foundation repair usually take?
What are some "red flags" indicating a foundation company to avoid?
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More Foundation Resources
National Foundation Repair Ranking Methodology
Sources
U.S. Census Bureau (American Communities Survey)