Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Cedar Rapids
A few common reasons why Cedar Rapids homeowners suffer from foundation troubles 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, forcing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
- Standing water: Pooling water around your home can be a menace to your foundation's integrity, especially when it gathers in areas your gutters don't reach.
- Aging plumbing: While many Cedar Rapids homes are fairly new, some still use cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start to erode, leaking water could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can encroach on a home's foundation through cracks, and may apply force that causes your foundation cracking, pipes leaking, and overall structural weakening.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
When choosing a foundation repair company, you should consider your personal priorities. Ask each provider on your list about the following qualities.
Licensing and Experience
If an Iowa foundation company makes more than $2,000 per year, it must register with the state's Division of Labor. Registration doesn't require exams or continuing education. All it proves is that a company holds insurance and pays state taxes. However, cities in the Hawkeye State might still require licenses or practical training for foundation companies. To further understand your contractor's experience, we recommend asking questions about how the company inspects foundations, what local codes apply to your project, and how its team will draft plans and pull permits.
Another way to assess a company's standing is to check its website. There, you can learn how long it's been in business and its trade credentials. It might also share knowledge and insights through blog posts, podcasts, or videos.
Customer Reviews
We advise checking the company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile to find out whether it's accredited and has a high customer review score. You can check whether other homeowners have expressed satisfaction or filed complaints. Pay special attention to what customers say about company warranties. Remember that complaints don't necessarily mean a contractor is incompetent. The BBB shows how companies address complaints. A responsive team that works toward positive outcomes is a good one. Avoid a contractor if you don't see good communication about problems.
Foundation Repair Cost in Cedar Rapids
The price of foundation repair can range widely depending on the scale of the issues and what's needed to resolve them. For minor foundation fissures and settling issues, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is considerable damage, the normal cost is about $2,700. More intricate projects involving tunneling, helical piers, or major mudjacking could cost upwards of $6,800. This table shows the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $325 |
Leak Repair | $2,566 |
Stabilization | $4,415 |
Underpinning | $1,245 |
Waterproofing | $2,830 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Cedar Rapids
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Cedar Rapids?
What are the different types of foundations in Cedar Rapids?
Are there any warranties or guarantees provided with Cedar Rapids foundation repair services?
Are there telltale signs I should avoid a particular foundation company?
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)