Common Causes of Foundation Problems in St. Cloud
A home in St. Cloud might experience foundation issues for multiple reasons. Some are specific to the local environment, while others are widespread nationwide. They include:
- Improper modifications: Landscaping or roofing work that wasn't completed to standard could lead to your foundation settling.
- Aging plumbing: The average St. Cloud home construction year is 1982. If you live in an older home, it's likely to have cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start to erode, leakage could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Standing water: Water accumulation around your home can be a menace to your foundation, especially when it gathers in areas your gutters don't reach.
- Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plummet, topsoil abruptly ices over and lower layers can't expand, forcing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Your home's stability depends greatly on its foundation. It's crucial to hire the most qualified crew possible. Center your research on these attributes:
Licensing and Experience
Minnesota foundation repair companies need both a residential building contractor and residential remodeler license from the Department of Labor and Industry. The former license lets a company work on new construction, while the latter allows it to modify and repair existing foundations. Business owners need to take 14 hours of continuing education to renew a license. If a contractor makes less than $15,000 from foundation work, they can apply for a Certificate of Exemption and do not need a license. Talk to representatives to gain further insight into a company's experience. You should ask about local building codes, inspection processes and permit ordinances.
Another way to gauge a company's reputation is to look at its website. There, you can learn how long it's been in business and its trade credentials. It might also share insights and knowledge through blog posts, podcasts, or videos.
Customer Reviews
We suggest looking into the company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile to find out whether it's accredited and has a good customer review score. You can check whether other homeowners have reported satisfaction or filed complaints. Pay special attention to what customers say about company warranties. Negative feedback doesn't mean a contractor is unreliable. BBB reviews show how the company addressed complaints. It's a good sign if the company has settled issues proactively and favorably. You should stay away from a company with more negative reviews, no certifications, and no communication regarding issues.
Foundation Repair Cost in St. Cloud
The price of foundation repair can range widely depending on the scale of the issues and what's necessary to resolve them. For minor foundation cracking and settling concerns, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is significant deterioration, the typical cost is about $3,000. More complex projects involving digging, helical piers, or major mudjacking could cost upwards of $6,900. See below the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $354 |
Leak Repair | $2,851 |
Stabilization | $4,944 |
Underpinning | $1,357 |
Waterproofing | $3,150 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in St. Cloud
How much does foundation repair cost in St. Cloud?
Is foundation repair covered under my homeowners insurance?
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 avoid water accumulation.
- Water the soil around your foundation consistently, especially during dry spells, to prevent shrinking and expansion.
- If possible, grade the soil around your home to angle away from your foundation, promoting water drainage and minimizing the risk of foundation issues.
- Inspect your foundation for signs of damage, and repair any issues promptly.
Are there telltale signs I should avoid a particular foundation company?
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More Foundation Resources
National Foundation Repair Ranking Methodology
Sources
U.S. Census Bureau (American Communities Survey)