A home’s foundation supports the entire structure and keeps it stable. Cracks or other signs of foundation damage can compromise structural integrity if left unchecked. Finding a qualified, reputable foundation repair company is crucial to properly assess issues and make needed repairs to prevent further deterioration. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to find a good foundation repair company to entrust with this critical home maintenance need.

Common Signs of Foundation Damage

Several signs that may indicate the need for foundation repair include:

  • Cracks in walls or ceilings: Cracks wider than 1/4 inch or increasing in size often mean foundations are settling or shifting.
  • Sticking doors or windows: Doors and windows sticking or difficult to open can signify foundation movement.
  • Sloping floors: Uneven, sloping, or bouncing floors suggest uneven foundations.
  • Gaps between walls and ceilings: Gaps where interior walls meet the ceiling can indicate foundations shifting.

If you notice these or other signs, it’s important to have an inspection to assess if foundation repair is needed.

Understanding Foundation Repair

What is foundation repair?

Foundation repair refers to fixing issues with a home’s foundation to stabilize and reinforce it. Repairs can address a variety of problems like cracks, sinking, or settling.

Types of foundation damage

The foundation repair experts, over at Portman Foundation Repair, explain that some of the most common issues that require foundation repair include:

  • Bowing walls
  • Cracks or gaps
  • Shifting slab foundation
  • Foundation cracks
  • Settling and sinking
  • Erosion and water damage

These problems stem from factors like soil conditions, improper drainage, natural disasters, construction defects, and normal settling over time. If left unaddressed, foundation damage can worsen and lead to larger structural issues.

Step-by-Step Guide to Finding a Reputable Foundation Repair Contractor

Finding the right foundation repair company is key to properly assessing damage and making needed fixes to maintain structural integrity. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Research and Referrals

Start your search by asking neighbors, friends, or your realtor for referrals. Also check online reviews and testimonials for local companies. Look for foundation and concrete leveling contractors with consistently positive feedback.

Step 2: Evaluating Credentials and Experience

Verify that potential companies have proper licensing, insurance coverage, and certifications like from the National Foundation Repair Association. Also ask about their experience with foundation repairs, specifically projects similar to yours. Look for at least 10 years of experience.

Step 3: Assessing Customer Service and Professionalism

Pay attention to how companies respond to your initial calls or inquiry emails. Professional companies should be responsive, address all your questions, and avoid high-pressure sales tactics. Also take note of how knowledgeable and transparent they seem regarding process, pricing, etc.

Step 4: Reviewing Past Work and References

Ask companies for references from past clients with projects like yours. Follow up with these references and ask questions about their overall experience, quality of work, timeliness, etc. Also ask to see examples of past work.

Step 5: Understanding Repair Methods and Warranties

There are various methods for foundation repair – make sure to understand which method a company recommends for your situation and why. Be sure they don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. Also closely compare warranties on materials and labor. Opt for lifetime warranties when possible.

Step 6: Comparing Quotes and Transparency

Get detailed quotes from at least 3 reputable companies that include specifics on materials and work details. Ask questions if quotes seem vague or parts are unlabeled as “misc.” charges. Transparent companies will have no issues breaking down costs.

Step 7: Making an Informed Decision

Compile your research with all the information gathered from referrals, credentials, past work, repair methods, warranties, and quotes. Weigh all the factors to determine the best company that aligns with your budget and needs. Avoid companies that seem dodgy or use high-pressure tactics.

Questions to Ask Potential Companies

Here are some important questions to ask:

  • How long have you been in business and how much experience do you have with foundation repair specifically?
  • Are you insured and licensed for foundation repair in this area?
  • May I have some references from past clients with jobs similar to mine?
  • What methods do you use for foundation repair and why do you recommend that for my situation?
  • What type of warranty do you offer on labor and materials? What is covered?
  • Can you provide a detailed quote on pricing including material and labor costs?
  • What kind of foundation problems do you have experience with?
  • Do you provide free inspections?
  • What is the foundation repair process like at your company?
  • Are you accredited with the Better Business Bureau?

Conclusion

Having to deal with foundation issues is certainly not something any homeowner wants to do. However, choosing the right foundation repair company is extremely important for fully addressing foundation damage the first time around and preventing it from worsening. Be sure to do thorough research using the step-by-step guide covered here to find a reputable contractor that will solve the issues unique to your home’s foundation. Investing the time upfront will give you confidence and peace of mind that one of your home’s most important structural elements will be stabilized and restored.