Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Sanford
Foundation issues have several possible causes. Here are the most frequent ones for Sanford residents:
- Standing water: Pooling water around your home can be menacing to your foundation's integrity, especially when it collects in areas your gutters don't reach.
- Soil composition: Soil with large sand or clay concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Sanford gets, the soil absorbs moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction puts pressure on nearby foundations, even if the foundations stay dry.
- Aging plumbing: While many Sanford homes are fairly new, some still use cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start eroding, leaking water could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can intrude into a home's foundation through cracks, and may exert pressure that results in your foundation fracturing, pipes rupturing, and overall structural destabilization.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Choosing a foundation contractor doesn't have to be difficult. We encourage you to list what you desire most in a provider, then evaluate each contractor on your shortlist against these characteristics.
Licensing and Experience
Florida's contractor licensing system is rather unique. The state's Department of Business and Professional Regulation issues "certified" contractor licenses in building, general contracting, and residential construction that foundation companies must earn. There are also "registered" licenses issued at a local level. You can also get a sense of a company's experience through the details its representatives share. Inquire about its inspection processes, local codes, permit-pulling procedures, and fees.
Another way to measure a company's standing 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
Before selecting a company, check its online profile with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You can examine both complaints and positive reviews. Remember that negative feedback doesn't necessarily mean a contractor is unqualified. BBB reviews also show how companies address complaints. A proactive team that strives for excellent outcomes is a good one. Steer clear of a company if you don't see clear communication about problems.
Foundation Repair Cost in Sanford
The cost of foundation repair can vary substantially based on the scale of the problems and what needs to be done to fix them. For minor foundation fracturing and settling problems, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is quite substantial damage, the normal cost will be around $3,000. More intricate jobs involving tunneling, helical piers, or major concrete leveling could run you $6,900. This table shows the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $351 |
Leak Repair | $2,819 |
Stabilization | $4,885 |
Underpinning | $1,344 |
Waterproofing | $3,114 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Sanford
How much does foundation repair cost in Sanford?
When do I need to waterproof my foundation?
- Discoloration or odors
- Hairline cracks
- Flooding
- Uneven floors
- Plumbing leaks
- Mold and mildew
What preventive measures can I take to avoid foundation issues?
- Ensure your home's gutters and downspouts are in good condition and direct water away from your foundation to prevent water accumulation.
- Water the soil around your foundation consistently, especially during dry spells, to prevent expansion and shrinking.
- If possible, grade the soil around your home to angle away from your foundation, encouraging water drainage and minimizing the risk of foundation issues.
- Keep an eye on your foundation for cracks, and address any issues promptly.
Will foundation repair disrupt my daily routine while the work's being done?
That said, foundation repair crews operate industrial machinery, 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)