When it comes to the foundation of your home or business you don’t want to put off getting repairs done or cut corners. The foundation of your home affects everything from your doors and windows, to your floors and walls, to your roof.
In this guide to foundation repair you’ll find a compiled list of frequently asked questions and their answers that people have had over the past 20 years to help home and business owners get the answers they need to have a better understanding of what is going on with their structure.
Foundation repair cost?
The cost for foundation repair varies widely depending on the structure’s age, condition, size, and location.
Foundation repair methods?
Underpinning, drainage, injectable soil stabilization, and retaining walls.
Is foundation repair covered by insurance?
Typically, no. But, check the declarations page of your insurance plan. If there is coverage for a plumbing leak it won’t be covered if the plumbing leak was caused by a foundation issue to begin with.
How long does foundation repair last?
For the life of the structure. Minor adjustments may be required over time but a reputable foundation company will be happy to do those for you.
What is foundation repair?
Any of several methods ranging from injection to underpinning used to stabilize a foundation with structural issues.
How does foundation repair work?
After obtaining an engineer’s report and scope of work a foundation repair company will come in and follow engineering protocol in order to stabilize the foundation that has moved due to inferior soils or other extraneous factors.
How long does foundation repair take?
It depends on the size of the job. A typical foundation repair job should take no more than 1-2 days.
Is foundation repair tax deductible?
That is a great question for your accountant.
What is the best foundation repair method?
This guide to foundation repair notes that not a one size fits all. There are different foundation repair methods for different situations. Just because one particular method works in a given area an other area may require an entirely different approach. Fortress offers ALL methods of foundation repair.
Is foundation repair a capital improvement?
That is a great question for your accountant.
Financing for foundation repair?
Most reputable foundation repair companies offer financing. Fortress offers affordable payment options starting at $75/mo. They also offer 0% interest for 18 months.
What are some preventative measures I can take to protect my foundation?
(1) Soaker hoses to keep moisture levels consistent. (2) Due diligence. Periodically checking if there are any signs of movement. (3) Spiking water bills will often be an indicator of a plumbing leak which will in most cases lead to foundation issues. (4) Monitor the perimeter of your foundation for standing water and encroachment by tree roots.
What are common signs of foundation issues?
Window separation, expansion joint separation, doors that stick/swing on their own, drywall cracks, flooring cracks, slab cracks visible on the outside, step cracks in brick, and leaky roofs.
What do I do after foundation repair?
Continue to follow protocol set forth by your foundation repair company. A reputable foundation repair company will give you a checklist that will enable you to maintain the health of your foundation.
How to tell if a house is structurally sound?
Contact a structural engineer.
What causes foundation issues?
Seasonal temperature variations, moisture fluctuations in soil, tree roots, plumbing leaks, standing water, poorly executed construction, and lack of a geotechnical report prior to construction (especially in North Texas).
