How much do repairs cost?
With so many variables it is hard to provide an exact repair cost. However, the average repair is around $3,800 - $4,800.
Should I buy a house with foundation issues?
In some cases, you may be able to get a good deal on a home with foundation issues. As some foundation problems can be corrected easily and affordably. To be sure that the home is structurally sound have it inspected by a foundation contractor or an engineer. They will be able to give you an idea of how much the repair would cost so that you could make an offer with that in mind.
Should I fix my foundation before selling my home?
We recommend that your home is in near perfect condition to get top dollar for your home. This includes fixing your foundation issues. If fixing the foundation is outside of your budget, in some cases you may be able to sell your home as-is. It isn't uncommon for homes with foundation trouble to be bought by investors. Also, if you have the advantage of a seller's market, some buyers are willing to take on repairs themselves.
Will my plumbing break when repairing foundation issues?
It is possible that a leak already exists depending on how much the home has settled/moved, how old the home is, and if cast iron plumbing is present. We recommend addressing a leak after the foundation repair to avoid limited lift during the repair process.
How long should I wait before making cosmetic repairs?
We recommend waiting 2-3 months before making minimal repairs but every scenario will be different depending on the age of the home, how severe the settlement/movement was, and how much the foundation was lifted during the repair.
Will my insurance cover foundation damage?
It is rare for foundation repair to be covered by your insurance if the cause was a normal settlement. However, if you've purchased supplemental coverage you may be covered. Please review your policy's declarations page to see what perils are named or contact your provider for further details.
What regions are most affected by foundation failure?
The soil type in certain areas of the country leads to a higher rate of foundation trouble. Areas with high clay content and coastal areas with lots of sand tend to see the most damage. Homes in these regions are at greater risk for foundation damage. In Texas the following areas have expansive clay soil which can cause foundation movement:
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Dallas
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Fort Worth
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Houston
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Corpus Christi
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Austin
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San Antonio
To learn more about regions that are affected due to the soils visit https://geology.com/articles/soil/
What causes foundation damage?
For the vast majority of issues, water is the primary culprit. Variations in moisture cause components of the soil to swell or shrink, leading to movement beneath your foundation. Your property may be more susceptible to foundation damage if:
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It was built on expansive clay
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It was built on improperly compacted fill soils
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Area around the foundation has poor drainage
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You live in an area with extreme seasonal changes
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You have experienced a plumbing leak below your home
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An earthquake, flood, drought, tornado compromised the structure