Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Akron
Foundation issues have a few possible causes. Here are the most prevalent ones for Akron residents:
- 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: Water accumulation around your home can be a menace to your foundation's integrity, especially when it collects in areas your drainage system doesn't protect.
- Aging plumbing: Akron has its fair share of older homes, with a median building year of 1962. Many of these properties use cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start to erode, leakage could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't done properly could result in your foundation settling.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Choosing a foundation contractor doesn't have to be difficult. We encourage you to jot down what you want most in a company, then evaluate each company on your shortlist against these characteristics.
Licensing and Experience
While Ohio doesn't regulate foundation repair companies at a state level, cities can choose to require licenses, exams, or continuing education. Contact the Akron city hall, Summit County, or your regional building district for more information about what's necessary. Talk to team members to gain additional insight into a company's experience. You should ask about local permit ordinances, building codes and inspection processes.
Another way to determine a company's reputation is to check its website. There, you can learn how long it's been in business and its trade qualifications. It might also share insights and knowledge through blog posts, podcasts, or videos.
Customer Reviews
We suggest reviewing the company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile to determine whether it's accredited and has a good 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. Complaints aren't necessarily a red flag in themselves. You want to discover how a company responds to them. If the management team proactively and consistently resolves issues, it's a good sign. However, if the company lacks accreditation, has more negative reviews, and doesn't communicate well, you should avoid working with it.
Finally, we recommend you search different websites, including Trustpilot and Google, for other reviews.
Foundation Repair Cost in Akron
The cost of foundation repair can range quite widely based on the scale of the problems and what must be done to fix them. For minor foundation cracking and settling concerns, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is quite substantial damage, the typical cost will be around $2,200. More intricate jobs involving tunneling, helical piers, or extensive concrete leveling could run you $6,600. Below are the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $276 |
Leak Repair | $2,095 |
Stabilization | $3,543 |
Underpinning | $1,062 |
Waterproofing | $2,302 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Akron
How much does foundation repair cost in Akron?
Can a foundation always be fixed?
How long does foundation repair usually take?
Do I need to leave my home for foundation repair work?
That said, foundation repair crews operate heavy equipment, and you'll occasionally experience loud noises or tremors. If either of these will disturb you, you might prefer to leave and return when the crew is finished.
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)