Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Federal Way
Some frequent reasons why Federal Way homeowners suffer from foundation woes include:
- Soil composition: Soil with large clay or sand concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Federal Way gets, 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 keep dry.
- Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't performed to standard could lead to your foundation settling.
- Standing water: Pooling water around your home can be menacing to your foundation, especially when it collects in areas your gutters don't protect.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can enter a home's foundation through cracks, and may apply force that causes your foundation breaking, pipes leaking, and overall structural deterioration.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
To pick a foundation repair contractor, you should consider what's most important to you. Use this list of criteria to help you navigate the process.
Licensing and Experience
Washington foundation repair companies can be either general or specialty contractors. Look for companies with a concrete certification, showing that they follow best practices in the foundation field. You can also get a sense of a company's experience through the details its representatives share. Inquire about its inspection methods, local building regulations, permit-pulling procedures, and fees.
Another way to assess a company's standing is to check its website. There, you can learn how long it's been in business and its trade qualifications. It might also share knowledge and insights through blog posts, podcasts, or videos.
Customer Reviews
We suggest examining the company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile to find out whether it's accredited and has a high customer review score. You can check 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 unreliable. BBB reviews show how the company handled complaints. It's a good sign if the company has resolved issues appropriately and proactively. You should steer clear of a company with many negative reviews, no licensure, and no communication regarding issues.
Foundation Repair Cost in Federal Way
The price of foundation repair can range widely depending on the degree of the issues and what's required to resolve them. For minor foundation fissures and settling problems, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is considerable damage, the average cost is about $3,000. More intricate projects involving excavating, helical piers, or major mudjacking could cost upwards of $6,900. See below 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 Federal Way
How much does foundation repair cost in Federal Way?
When do I need to waterproof my foundation?
- Uneven floors
- Discoloration or odors
- Flooding
- Hairline cracks
- Mold and mildew
- Plumbing leaks
Do Federal Way foundation repair companies offer warranties or guarantees?
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 expansion and shrinking.
- If possible, grade the soil around your home to angle away from your foundation, promoting water drainage and minimizing the risk of foundation issues.
- Check your foundation for signs of damage, and repair any issues promptly.
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More Foundation Resources
National Foundation Repair Ranking Methodology
Sources
U.S. Census Bureau (American Communities Survey)