Best 5 Foundation Repair Companies in Frederick, MD

Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Frederick

Foundation issues have several possible causes. Here are the most prevalent ones for Frederick residents:

• Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plummet, topsoil freezes rapidly and lower layers can't expand, pushing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
• Soil composition: Soil with large sand or clay concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Frederick receives, the soil absorbs moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction stresses nearby foundations, even if the foundations keep dry.
• Aging plumbing: While many Frederick homes are fairly new, some still use cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start to erode, leakage could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
• Improper modifications: Landscaping or roofing work that wasn't completed to standard could result in your foundation settling.

How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company

Your home's integrity weighs heavily on its foundation. It's crucial to hire the most qualified crew possible. Focus your research on these qualities:

Licensing and Experience

In Maryland, the state Department of Labor licenses all foundation repair companies. There are strict requirements to get and keep a license. Business owners must have two years of industry experience, pass a trade exam, submit business filings and proof of insurance, and clear a financial audit. Subcontractors working your foundation job don't need a license if they're working for a licensed contractor. Talk to staff to gain additional insight into a company's experience. You should ask about local building codes, inspection processes and permit ordinances.

Contractor websites are excellent places to do your research. Usually, a business will display how long it's been operating. It might also publish articles to help prospective customers.

Customer Reviews

When you're researching a company's reputation, head to its Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile. There, you can find its rating and a list of customer reviews, both complaints and positive experiences. Remember that negative feedback doesn't necessarily mean a contractor is unqualified. BBB reviews also show how companies resolve complaints. A responsive team that works toward amicable outcomes is a good one. Don't work with a business if you don't see effective communication about problems.

Foundation Repair Cost in Frederick

The price of foundation repair can range widely based on the scale of the issues and what must be fixed. For minor foundation fracturing and settling concerns, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is substantial deterioration, the typical cost falls at about $2,800. More intricate projects requiring tunneling, helical piers, or major mudjacking could cost $6,800+. This table shows the average foundation repair costs for common issues.