Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Longview
Foundation issues have multiple possible causes. Here are the most frequent ones for Longview residents:
- Soil composition: Soil with large clay or sand concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Longview experiences, the soil absorbs 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 completed properly could lead to your foundation settling.
- Aging plumbing: The average Longview home construction year is 1970. If you live in an older home, it's likely to have cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start eroding, leakage could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can intrude into a home's foundation through crevices, and may apply force that results in your foundation cracking, pipes being damaged, and overall structural weakening.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
To choose a foundation repair company, you should determine what's most important to you. Use this guide 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. 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 some of the best places to do your research. Usually, a company will mention how long it's been in the industry. It might also publish other content to assist interested parties.
Customer Reviews
When you're researching a company's reputation, check out its Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile. There, you can find its "letter grade" rating and a list of customer reviews, both complaints and positive experiences. Complaints don't mean a contractor is bad news. BBB reviews show how the company handled complaints. It's a positive sign if the company has resolved issues favorably and proactively. You should steer clear of a company with many negative reviews, no certifications, and no communication regarding issues.
Foundation Repair Cost in Longview
The price of foundation repair can range widely depending on the extent of the issues and what needs to be fixed. For minor foundation fracturing and settling issues, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is substantial damage, the normal cost falls at about $2,600. More involved projects requiring digging, helical piers, or major mudjacking could cost $6,800+. See below the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $318 |
Leak Repair | $2,500 |
Stabilization | $4,293 |
Underpinning | $1,220 |
Waterproofing | $2,756 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Longview
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Longview?
What are some signs I need foundation waterproofing?
Note that there are two kinds of waterproofing. Interior waterproofing involves installing sump pumps and drains or using sealants around a crawlspace. Exterior waterproofing is usually less expensive. It involves installing exterior drains and establishing physical barriers between your foundation and yard.
Are there any warranties or guarantees provided with Longview foundation repair services?
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 consistently, especially during dry spells, to prevent shrinking and expansion.
- If possible, grade the soil around your home to slope away from your foundation, encouraging water drainage and minimizing the risk of foundation issues.
- Inspect your foundation for cracks, and fix any issues immediately.
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)