Minor cracks in the foundation are normal, especially if you have an old home or office. However, cracks wider than an eighth of an inch call for prompt repair. You should also contact a structural engineer to assess the damage and fix it before it becomes a serious problem. Foundations can suffer various damages, ranging from cracks and leaks to sinkage and bowing walls. Although the average cost of foundation repair is around $4,500, it varies depending on the scale of repair required. Small patching can cost around $500, while full-scale repair may cost over $10,000.
Signs of a bad foundation
While not all issues call for repair, it is vital to watch for specific signs and find the necessary foundation repair. Some of the vital signs of a bad foundation include:
a) Cracks along the interior floors, walls and ceilingThis is often a result of a shifting foundation. When this happens, the interior surfaces also shift and settle, causing small cracks that might widen over time if the foundation keeps shifting and settling.
b) Displaced door and window frames
This is another result of shifting foundation, which causes door and window frames to move out of position. The doors and windows my stick or fail to close/open properly. This may also make locks cumbersome to engage/disengage. In some cases, the windows and doors shut or open on their own. Cabinets may also pull away from the wall of have doors that hang awkwardly when open.
c) Sagging and upheaval
Sagging or uneven floors are a sign your foundation requires repair and may result from a sinking foundation. Upheaval or obvious bubbling and unevenness are other signals of a damaged foundation. If your concrete foundation is uneven or sagging, you need to call a professional.
d) Cracks in the foundation
Some cracks are minor and normal. However, cracks allow moisture to seep into the foundation, causing damp basements and crawlspaces. Standing water and excess humidity can cause irreparable damage if left unresolved, so you should hire foundation repair as soon as possible.
How much is foundation repair in 2021?
The cost of foundation repair ranges from just under $2,000 to over $6,000. The national average is $4,487. However, each case is different. Here’s a quick look at the average cost of fixing common foundation issues.
• Foundation crack repair – Crack repair normally costs from $250 to $800. The cost may rise if the cracks are wider than an eighth of an inch, which occurs when there’s structural damage.
• Foundation leak repair – Leaks can signal significant problems with drainage and moisture buildup in your home. Fixing leaks will cost you between $2,000 and $7,000 depending on the scale of damage.
• Sinking foundation repair – House setting and sinking repair cost between $1,000 and $3,000 per unit. Catching the warning signs early can significantly reduce the total cost you will incur.
• Bowing wall repair – Bowing basement and crawlspace walls can be repaired and fortified using steel reinforcements and carbon fiber. The average cost is $350 to $1,000.
There are various other foundation issues like piercing and basement underpinning ($1,000 to $3,000), foundation jacking ($500 to $1500), stabilization ($4,000 to $12,000) and sealing (up to $7,000).
Conclusion
Foundation cracks need prompt fixing to prevent the damage from escalating. Catching warning signs early is the key to saving more on the cost of repair. It is also vital to hire reputable foundation repair companies that can guarantee top-quality service. That’s precisely what we promise here at FSO. Our goal is to help you repair all foundation issues early to get the most years from your investment. Contact us today to find out more about our services.
