Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Northampton
A few common reasons why Northampton homeowners face foundation troubles include:
- Soil composition: Soil with large clay or sand concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Northampton gets, the soil absorbs moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction presses against nearby foundations, even if the foundations keep dry.
- Aging plumbing: The average Northampton home construction year is 1976. If you live in an older home, it's likely to have cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start eroding, leaking water could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't performed properly could result in your foundation settling.
- Standing water: Pooling water around your home can harm your foundation, especially when it gathers in areas your gutter system doesn't reach.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can intrude into a home's foundation through cracks, and may create stress that results in your foundation breaking, pipes leaking, and overall structural deterioration.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
When choosing a foundation company, you should consider your personal priorities. Ask each provider on your list about the following qualities.
Licensing and Experience
According to the Pennsylvania Attorney General, foundation contractors must register with the commonwealth if they make between $5,000 and $50 million in annual revenue. Registration doesn't involve exams, but it does show a contractor meets bond, insurance, and background check requirements. Talk to representatives to gain additional insight into a company's experience. You should ask about local inspection processes, permit ordinances and building codes.
Another way to assess a company's standing is to examine its website. There, you can learn how long it's been in business and its trade accreditations. It might also share insights and knowledge through blog posts, podcasts, or videos.
Customer Reviews
Before committing to a company, check its online profile with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You can examine both positive reviews and complaints. Complaints don't mean a contractor is bad news. BBB reviews show how the company addressed complaints. It's a positive sign if the company has fixed issues favorably and proactively. You should stay away from a company with more negative reviews, no certifications, and no communication regarding issues.
Foundation Repair Cost in Northampton
The cost of foundation repair can differ significantly based on the extent of the problems and what must be done to fix them. For minor foundation cracking and settling problems, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is significant damage, the typical cost will be around $3,100. More complex jobs involving digging, helical piers, or extensive 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 | $359 |
Leak Repair | $2,899 |
Stabilization | $5,032 |
Underpinning | $1,375 |
Waterproofing | $3,204 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Foundation Repair Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Northampton
How much does foundation repair cost in Northampton?
What's the time to complete a typical foundation repair job?
Do Northampton foundation repair companies offer warranties or guarantees?
Are there telltale signs I should avoid a particular foundation company?
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)