Foundation Repair
Foundation repair corrects structural movement in the part of your home that carries its weight: the slab, footings, foundation walls or piers. Small movement can grow into bigger, more expensive damage, so it pays to have problems evaluated early.
Common signs of foundation problems
- Stair-step cracks in brick or block walls, or cracks in poured concrete that keep growing
- Doors and windows that stick or no longer close properly
- Floors that slope, dip or feel bouncy
- Gaps between walls and ceilings, trim or window frames
- A chimney or porch pulling away from the house
How foundations are typically repaired
- Piers and underpinning: steel or concrete piers are installed down to more stable soil or bedrock to support, and sometimes lift, the foundation.
- Wall stabilization: bowing or leaning basement walls can be reinforced with braces, anchors or carbon fiber straps.
- Drainage correction: water collecting near the foundation is a common cause of movement, so repairs often include grading, gutters or drains.
- Crack repair: cracks can be sealed or injected, though the underlying cause should be addressed too.
The right fix depends on your soil, foundation type and the cause of the movement, which is why a proper evaluation matters.
Questions to ask before you hire
- Can I see a written scope of work and an itemized estimate?
- Will an independent structural engineer evaluate the problem? Many cities require an engineer’s letter for foundation repair permits.
- Are you licensed or registered where required, and insured?
- What warranty do you offer, and does it transfer if I sell the home?