Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Oshkosh
A home in Oshkosh might experience foundation issues for a variety of reasons. Some are specific to the local environment, while others are prevalent nationwide. They include:
- Improper modifications: Landscaping or roofing work that wasn't completed properly could lead to your foundation settling.
- Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plummet, topsoil freezes rapidly and lower layers can't expand, pushing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
- Aging plumbing: The average Oshkosh home construction year is 1972. If you live in an older home, it's likely to have cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start to erode, leakage could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can intrude into a home's foundation through cracks, and may apply force that leads to your foundation fracturing, pipes being damaged, and overall structural deterioration.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
When choosing a foundation contractor, you should consider your personal priorities. Ask each provider on your list about the following qualities.
Licensing and Experience
According to the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services, all foundation repair companies must have a Dwelling Contractor certification. To earn and keep a license, a contractor must take a 12-hour preapplication course and take continuing education every other year. You can also get a sense of a company's experience through the information its team gives you. Inquire about its inspection methods, local code requirements, permit-pulling procedures, and fees.
One of the most effective ways to assess a company's reputation is to explore its website. Look for the company's years in business and the accreditations its team holds. Many prominent companies provide educational content for future customers.
Customer Reviews
When you're researching a company's standing, check out its Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile. There, you can find its rating and a list of customer reviews, both positive experiences and complaints. Complaints aren't necessarily a red flag in themselves. Instead, discover how a company handles them. If the management team consistently and proactively resolves issues, it's a good sign. However, if the company lacks accreditation, has more negative reviews, and doesn't communicate well, you should think twice about working with it.
Lastly, we recommend you search different websites, including Trustpilot and Google, for more opinions.
Foundation Repair Cost in Oshkosh
The cost of foundation repair can differ significantly depending on the extent of the issues and what needs to be done to resolve them. For minor foundation cracking and settling issues, you may pay as little as $1,900. However, if there is more significant damage, the average cost will likely fall around $3,200. More complex jobs involving tunneling, helical piers, or concrete leveling could cost $7,000 or more. See below the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $376 |
Leak Repair | $3,061 |
Stabilization | $5,332 |
Underpinning | $1,438 |
Waterproofing | $3,385 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Oshkosh
How much does foundation repair cost in Oshkosh?
When would I need a foundation replacement, and when could I just get a repair?
When do I need to waterproof my foundation?
- Flooding
- Hairline cracks
- Discoloration or odors
- Mold and mildew
- Plumbing leaks
- Uneven floors
What preventive measures can I take to avoid foundation issues?
- Make sure your home's gutters and downspouts are in good condition 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 angle away from your foundation, promoting water drainage and minimizing the risk of foundation issues.
- Keep an eye on your foundation for cracks, and repair 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)