Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Odessa
A home in Odessa might experience foundation issues for a variety of reasons. Some are unique to the local environment, while others are common nationwide. They include:
- Standing water: Standing water around your home can harm your foundation, especially when it collects in areas your gutter system doesn't cover.
- Aging plumbing: While many Odessa 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 performed to standard could lead to your foundation settling.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can encroach on a home's foundation through cracks, and may create stress 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 write down what you desire most in a company, then evaluate each company on your list against these attributes.
Licensing and Experience
In Texas, local governments can choose to require contractor's licenses. Even some major cities do not require licensure to alter or repair foundations. We recommend contacting your local officials to learn more about contractor and building standards. To further understand your contractor's experience, we recommend asking questions about how the company inspects foundations, how its team will draft plans and pull permits, and what local codes apply to your project.
Another way to evaluate a company's credibility is to examine 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 advise examining the company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile to determine 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. Remember that negative feedback doesn't necessarily mean a contractor is incompetent. The BBB shows how companies resolve complaints. A proactive team that aims to achieve amicable outcomes is a good one. Steer clear of a company if you don't see effective communication about problems.
Foundation Repair Cost in Odessa
The cost of foundation repair can differ significantly based on the extent of the problems and what needs to be done to fix them. For minor foundation cracking and settling problems, you may pay as little as $1,900. However, if there is significant damage, the average cost will be around $3,400. More complex jobs involving tunneling, helical piers, or major concrete leveling could run you $7,000. This table shows the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $395 |
Leak Repair | $3,248 |
Stabilization | $5,679 |
Underpinning | $1,511 |
Waterproofing | $3,595 |
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 Odessa
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Odessa?
What's the most popular foundation type in Odessa?
What preventive measures can I take to avoid foundation issues?
- Ensure your home's gutters and downspouts are properly installed 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 reducing the risk of foundation issues.
- Check your foundation for cracks, and repair any issues promptly.
What are some "red flags" indicating a foundation company to avoid?
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)