Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Kent
Foundation issues have some possible causes. Here are the most frequent ones for Kent residents:
- Soil composition: Soil with large clay or sand concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Kent experiences, the soil soaks up moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction stresses nearby foundations, even if the foundations stay dry.
- Standing water: Water accumulation around your home can harm your foundation, especially when it gathers in areas your gutter system doesn't protect.
- Aging plumbing: While many Kent homes are fairly new, some still use cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start eroding, leaking water could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't performed properly could result in your foundation settling.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Your home's foundation is vital to its structural integrity, so it's important to work with a reliable foundation repair provider. Assess each company using the following factors:
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. To further understand your contractor's experience, we recommend asking questions about how the company inspects foundations, how its team will draft plans and pull permits, and what local codes apply to your project.
Contractor websites are among the best places to do your research. Typically, a foundation company will mention how long it's been in business. It might also publish other content to help interested parties.
Customer Reviews
Before choosing a company, check 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 addressed complaints. It's a positive sign if the company has resolved issues favorably and proactively. You should steer clear of a company with more negative reviews, no certifications, and no communication regarding issues.
Foundation Repair Cost in Kent
The price of foundation repair can vary substantially depending on the extent of the issues and what needs to be fixed. For minor foundation fissures and settling concerns, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is considerable damage, the average cost lands at about $3,000. More complex projects requiring tunneling, helical piers, or major mudjacking could cost $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 Kent
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Kent?
What are some signs I need foundation waterproofing?
- Discoloration or odors
- Uneven floors
- Mold and mildew
- Hairline cracks
- Flooding
- Plumbing leaks
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.
- 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 signs of damage, and repair any issues immediately.
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)