Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Elgin
Foundation issues have some possible causes. Here are the top ones for Elgin residents:
- Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plummet, topsoil freezes rapidly and lower layers can't expand, pushing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
- Improper modifications: Landscaping or roofing work that wasn't completed to standard could result in your foundation settling.
- Standing water: Pooling water around your home can be a menace to your foundation's integrity, especially when it gathers in areas your drainage system doesn't protect.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can enter a home's foundation through cracks, and may create stress that leads to your foundation cracking, pipes leaking, and overall structural weakening.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
To pick a foundation repair business, you should think about what's most important to you. Use this guide to help you navigate the process.
Licensing and Experience
Illinois doesn't issue contractor licenses at the state level, but larger cities in the Land of Lincoln will usually have their own licensing requirements and exams. We recommend contacting your local government office for more information before you begin your company search. You can also get a sense of a company's experience through the details its representatives share. Ask about its inspection methods, local codes, permit-pulling procedures, and fees.
One of the best ways to evaluate a company's reputation is to go to its website. Look for the company's years in business and the accreditations its team holds. Many leading companies provide educational content for potential customers.
Customer Reviews
When you're researching a company's reputation, check out its Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile. There, you can find its "letter grade" rating and a list of customer reviews, both positive experiences and complaints. Remember that negative feedback doesn't necessarily mean a contractor is incompetent. The BBB shows how companies handle complaints. A proactive team that aims to achieve amicable outcomes is a good one. Avoid a business if you don't see effective communication about problems.
Foundation Repair Cost in Elgin
The cost of foundation repair can vary quite a bit depending on the scale of the issues and what needs to be done to fix them. For minor foundation cracking and settling issues, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is considerable deterioration, the average cost will likely fall around $3,000. More complex jobs involving digging, helical piers, or major mudjacking could cost $6,900 or more. This table shows the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $357 |
Leak Repair | $2,881 |
Stabilization | $4,999 |
Underpinning | $1,368 |
Waterproofing | $3,184 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Elgin
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Elgin?
Can a foundation always be fixed?
Will my homeowners insurance cover foundation repair?
What are some "red flags" indicating a foundation company to avoid?
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More Foundation Resources
National Foundation Repair Ranking Methodology
Sources
U.S. Census Bureau (American Communities Survey)