Category: Foundation Repair

How Do Southern California’s Soils Affect Your Home’s Foundation?

Southern California has a diverse assortment of soils, from clays to sands, rockier mountain soils to silt in the valleys. Many of these soils have their own challenges for buildings, which could help determine if your home is going to experience foundation problems.

Cracked Basement Wall Foundation Repair

Clay Soils

Some areas of Southern California, including San Diego’s eastern suburbs, have soils with a high clay content. These soils can exhibit extreme shrink-swell cycles, heaving when wet and shrinking when dry. If these changes are happening to the soil beneath your home and haven’t been mitigated, it is likely going to impact your foundation, leading to differential settlement or heaving, depending upon the cycle. When that occurs, you will begin to see the signs of foundation failure, from doors and windows sticking to cracks forming in walls.

Sandy Soils

Sandy soils don’t expand like clay soils, so heaving should not be a problem. They are susceptible, however, to both erosion and compression under load. Both of these can lead to foundation settlement by creating conditions in which the soil is less able to support the weight of a building.

Silty Soils

Silty soils, common in areas such as historic riverbeds, have some of the same issues as clay soils. They have a tendency to retain water, making for poor drainage and opening the door to heaving. As they dry out, they also shrink, making the susceptible to foundation settlement.

Loamy Soils

Loam, a mixture of the above three soil types is the best to build upon because the composition reduces the downsides of all three. Loams with higher clay contents still can experience some shrink-swell issues, however.

Collapsible Soils

Collapsible soils are prone to hydroconsolidation, which basically means that they tend to collapse when they get wet enough. In areas with collapsible soils, steps should be taking to ensure that any collapse has taken place prior to building rather than afterward. Otherwise swift differential settlement with significant foundation problems is possible.

Are You Experiencing Foundation Problems in Southern California? Contact Foundations on the Level

At Foundations on the Level, we offer expert foundation repair services in San Diego and Orange counties. If your home is experiencing foundation problems, contact us today.

Are Cracks Around Windows & Doors Serious?

No one likes to see a crack in their wall, and cracks around doors and window frames are no different. At minimum, they detract from the look of your home. But regardless of cosmetic damage, the more important question is whether the cracks are signs of serious structural problems.

The answer, like so much with cracks around your home, is “It depends.”

A crack radiating from a window frame

Why Do Cracks Form Around Doors and Windows?

Many homes develop some measure of cracking over the years, and window and door frames are among the most common locations.

This is because the window or door frame had to be “cut out” of the wall, meaning the wood framing, block or other material doesn’t extend all the way from floor to ceiling. The window and door frames, therefore, represent weak points where cracks from stress caused by settlement or other issues is likely to occur.

Windows and door frames are also susceptible to problems caused by weather. Expansion and contraction from temperature changes and varying levels of humidity can also cause cracking.

Finally, the same problems that can cause issues in other portions of your wall can also cause them around doors. These include drywall installation problems and water damage.

How Can You Tell If a Crack is a Sign of Serious Structural Problems?

First let’s get one cause out of the way: Is there staining around the crack? If the wall is drywall, does it feel damp or soft. If so, water problems are the likely cause. Structural problems might or might not be contributing to the water getting into the walls, but either way, finding the source of the water and stopping it is crucial.

It is isn’t water, next turn your attention to the direction and size of the cracks. If the crack is just a hairline, it might be caused by settlement, but minor enough settlement not to constitute foundation problems. In these cases, properly patching the crack will likely be enough. Just watch to see if the cracks reopen or widen, because that is a sign of an ongoing problem.

Also, if the crack is in an exterior basement or foundation wall, ensure that the crack is properly filled, not just cosmetically covered up. That is key because these cracks can cause water problems rather than be caused by them. Foundations on the Level offers crack filling services in San Diego and Orange counties in California.

Cracks around doors and windows that indicate serious settlement and foundation problems are usually wider than a hairline and extend diagonally from the frame. Another test is to try the door or window itself. Doors and windows that stick and seem misaligned are a sign of foundation or structural problems.

How Do You Fix Cracks Around Doors Or Window Frames?

This depends on the severity. If the crack is just a surface level issue, implement a surface level, cosmetic fix, albeit one done the right way so the crack doesn’t reopen on its own.

If foundation problems are causing the cracks, however, repairing the cracks is only papering over the real problem. And that repair won’t last in most cases because the cracks will just reopen.

Instead, the foundation problems themselves must be dealt with. There is a good chance that your home needs underpinning. At Foundations on the Level, we employ push piers or helical piers to stabilize and level a building’s foundation permanently. Because while no one wants to need foundation repair, you really don’t want to need foundation repair twice.

Need Foundation Repairs in Southern California? Contact Foundations on the Level

If you think the cracks around your doors and windows might be foundation problems, contact the foundation pros at Foundations on the Level.

What is the Purpose of a Crawl Space?

In Southern California, many homes are built with a slab-on-grade foundation. But some homes have a crawl space. Why would a home have a crawl space? What is the purpose of a crawl space?

What is the purpose of a crawl space?

There are a couple of reasons a builder might choose to add a crawl space to a home.

  1. Ease of Access: Many times a home is built with a crawl space for ease of installation and access for HVAC, water & sewer piping, and more. This allows for access for repairs later as well.
  2. Leveling the ground prior to building: When building a slab-on-grade foundation the ground has to be level. We have a lot of sloping properties in SoCal and it can get very expensive to level the ground enough to pour a foundation. In many cases, a crawl space is more cost-effective in this scenario.
  3. A slab may not be possible: Some properties just don’t work on a slab. Waterfront or sloping properties might not allow for a slab and a crawl space is the only way to go.

The Downside to Crawl Spaces

There are some downsides to crawl spaces, however.

Because crawl spaces vent to the outside, moisture and humidity can be a huge problem in a crawl space. This can lead to the following problems that you really don’t want to have:

  • Insect infestations
  • Mold
  • Mildew
  • Wood rot of exposed wood beams and joists
  • Foul odors

What can you do about these problems? You can install a crawl space vapor barrier and a dehumidifier to assist with moisture. Crawl space jacks can replace rotten wood supports to prevent sagging floors in the home above.

It’s important when considering purchasing a home to ask the current homeowner about any issues they have had with their crawl space. It may be considered an unimportant space in the home but it truly can affect the whole home. Ask questions and understand what’s going on beneath the home.

Is Slab-On-Grade a Better Option?

Slab-On-Grade is probably the most common foundation in Southern California but it doesn’t mean that it’s always a better choice. There are common problems that occur with this type of foundation as well including upheaval, cracking in the foundation, settlement, or even poor construction from the start due to a lack of preparation.

All foundations come with their pros and cons. It helps to understand the common foundation problems that exist so you can be on the lookout for them. If you look at our website on the right side of each page you’ll notice an additional resources section with a whole list of common foundation problems. Make sure to read through and educate yourself on what to look out for.

If you have any other questions about crawl space foundations, reach out to the team at FOUNDATIONS ON THE LEVEL today.

Can Earthquakes Damage Your Foundation?

An earthquake can be a scary event. Not only do you fear for you and your family’s safety, but worrying about the stability of your home when it’s all said and done can be a stressful task too. Earthquakes can make anyone feel powerless, but in this article, we will talk about how these events can affect your home and what you can do to fix your home afterward.

How Can Earthquakes Affect Your Home?

Foundation problems come from a shift in the soil below your home’s foundation, so you can see how an earthquake can do serious damage to the stability of a house. Living in California this is an ever-present problem. This is why it’s important to regularly check your home for signs of damage even after a small earthquake. A serious way that earthquakes can damage your home is by cracking your foundation. Smaller cracks may just be from normal aging of your home settling, but larger cracks that are wider than 1/4 inch are due to earth tremors. Especially horizontal cracks or cracks near windows and doors can indicate foundation movement. Cracks inside of your home might also be a sign of a foundation problem caused by an earthquake.

Foundations on The Level Foundation repair

How To Fix Foundation Damage

If you find signs of a foundation problem in your home after a mild earthquake and you’re in the San Diego County and Orange County area contact us today. We are experts at all kinds of foundation repair to lift, stabilize, and support your foundation. Foundations On The Level can reverse any foundation problem while preventing future issues from happening. Call today to get a free quote and learn more about how we can repair earthquake-related problems in your home.

How Do Drainage Issues Affect Your Foundation

Did you know that poor drainage can lead to foundation problems? Especially with your gutters, if it isn’t properly draining water away from your home it can lead to disaster.

Affecting Your Foundation

When water puddles around the outside of your home, this expands the soil around your home. An excessive amount of puddling around your home can lead to leaks and cracks in your foundation.

A broken downspout

A foundation supports the entire weight of your house. If it is compromised, you will start seeing more and more problems around your home. If gone too long without any repairs your home can be dangerous to be in.

Solutions

A great solution for poor drainage around your home is gutter extensions. The best part of this solution is that these extensions aren’t terribly expensive. These gutters should run at least five feet from your house. This will give enough room for the water to properly drain away from your home.

Another great solution is regularly cleaning out your gutters. Gutters can often be filled with debris like leaves and twigs. Having too much material in your gutters will make draining much more difficult, leading to the gutters overflowing, not going down the downspout, and ending up by your foundation.

Things to Watch Out For

Some things you should watch out for that are common symptoms of poor drainage is; puddles, standing water, and mosquitoes.

More Info

If your having drainage or puddling problems that have led to a crack in your foundation make sure you contact Foundation on the Level! We have the experience and tools needed to repair your foundation.

Is Foundation Repair Covered By Insurance?

Is foundation repair covered by insurance?

When you find that your house has foundation damage, it can feel like a pricey chore. Not only will it require loads of work, but it can also be a big hit to your bank account. That is why it is important to know if a foundation repair is covered by homeowners insurance. When researching foundation repair this is one of the most searched topics when it comes to foundation repair.

To answer the question if foundation repairs are covered by homeowners insurance, unfortunately, the best answer we can give you is; it depends. The main factor that is dependent is the cause of the damage. 

Some reasons are easier to find than others. An obvious one could be some sort of weather-related damage, like flooding. Some not so obvious symptoms could be cracked walls and sticking doors and windows. To find the root problem you may need to call a foundation professional to find the source of the damage. They can also tell you the extent of your problem. Some common foundation issues are; Too much or too little moisture, faulty construction, tree root growth, plumbing leaks, soil movement, and many more. 

Insurance Coverage

The Coverage A section of your home insurance policy protects the structural part of your home, this includes a home’s foundation. Unfortunately, you only will get protection if the reason is specifically named in your policy. So if your foundation issue was caused by something listed in your policy, your insurer will likely help cover the bill for repairs. If not, you’re going to be on your own. Many policies cover; fire, vandalism, falling objects, water damage, windstorms, and explosions. 

Almost all home policies don’t include two of the natural disasters that can do the most damage; floods and earthquakes. If you live in an area where either of these disasters is common, it is recommended to buy a separate natural disaster policy to protect your home. Also, most home policies don’t offer foundation repair insurance when the foundation problem results from wear and tear. Many Insurers say that it’s the home owner’s responsibility to maintain the home.

BE PREPARED 

One way to make sure your home is protected is to stay up to date on home inspections. This will make sure you are ahead of any damage and keep repair prices low. If you need a quality contractor or have any questions contact us! At Foundations on the Level we are foundation repair experts.

Common Slab Foundation Repair

There are so many reasons why your slab foundation might need repairs. In this article, we’ll talk about common problems homeowners have with their foundation and some ways to repair these problems.

Slab-Foundation-Repair-Blog-Banner

One common slab foundation problem is the disruption in the slab. This can create complications that consist of uneven floors and walls, and tilting countertops. The best solution for this problem is to have a contractor come take a look at your foundation to determine the cause.

Another problem is foundation cracks. They harm slabs made of concrete and may cause your foundation to separate at the joints. Obstacles commonly include gaps that are relatively small, although they can become larger if not fixed quickly. The one way to fix this is to install concrete piers.

Another common problem homeowners have is settling and sinking slabs.  These are both signals that your foundation is moving and damage is occurring. Common causes of shifting in your foundation can be soil and water. Ways to fix this problem is to install additional foundation piers. This has been an issue all through the 1900s and is still affecting houses built today.

Piers also could have shifted. Concrete or steel piers can both collapse over a period of time can create a dilemma. After all, it would be most unusual for them to last forever. You’ll want to make sure your foundation piers and slab are both secure. Robust foundations rarely fail for no good reason. They’ve improved in the past 30 years.

The last problem is poorly made foundations. Poorly made concrete foundations can cause slabs severe harm if the concrete was not poured thick enough. A thin concrete slab will not support a foundation because of the weight of the house. The best solution is to have your foundation inspected by an experienced contractor who can make your structure last. It’s important that it be made correctly.

More Info

If you are looking for a professional foundation repair company don’t look any further! Here at Foundations on the Level, we strongly believe in quality customer service and treat every home as if it was our own. Our specialists will work directly with you to analyze the unique problems that your home is facing and come up with the best solution for your needs and budget. We have established a fantastic reputation within Orange County & San Diego County for foundation repair, slab releveling, retaining walls, and more. Contact us for a free estimate!

Does Your Foundation Need More Maintenance?

Almost every homeowner has the never-ending task of maintaining their home. It seems like there is always something that needs to be fixed somewhere around the house. Having regular maintenance can protect the life of your home. When it comes to maintenance around the home’s foundation, people don’t give it the time or care it needs until it’s too late. Knowing how to properly take care of a foundation will help prolong its life, keep your home safe, and save you money.

Ways to Maintain a Foundation

regular maintenance checks on your foundation as well as an inspection if you suspect a problem, are essential to your foundation's health.

One way to keep your foundation in good health is to maintain drainage around your home. Avoiding water pooling near your home is a good way to protect your foundation. One way to avoid pooling is to make sure your gutters and downspouts are properly draining. This will keep any added unwanted moisture away from your home.

Another way to maintain your foundation is to water the soil around your house. During droughts and dry seasons during the year, the soil gets too dry. Soil that is too dry will shrink and will pull away from a home’s foundation. This will cause the foundation to shift and settle.

Regularly looking for cracks around your home is another way to stay on top of any repairs. Finding new cracks on the walls can be a sign that the foundation may be compromised. If the walls are damaged they should be looked at by a professional.

What’s the Damage?

If any damage is found it is important that you don’t wait to have the foundation looked at by a professional. Even if you do all these tips there is still a chance that damages may occur. If you see these damages around your home contact us with any inquiries or questions that you may have.

A Profile of Our Owner- Peter Zoschak

Get to know Peter Zoschak

My experience with foundations began in 1980 on Fire Island installing 40-foot pole pilings deep into the sand for new beach house foundations. 

After moving to California in 2000, I began designing projects and installing resistance piers to re-level residential and commercial buildings.

Peter Zoschak - owner of Foundations on the Level

I ran the project to re-level the DoubleTree Hotel in Berkeley, California. This was a massive project, 258 resistance piers were installed 26 stories deep to lift this three-story hotel 18 inches out of the ground. The project was successful and completed without a hitch. These experiences prove valuable when I design and install solutions for your foundation. 

We install the best pier systems manufactured by Earth Contact Products, the leader in the industry, located in Olathe, KS. These foundation products are made in the USA.

We have the latest technologies to weld slab cracks closed with Roklin Epoxy Systems and Fortress Carbon Fiber for stitching across slab cracks. 

I will complete a thorough inspection of your foundation and design a solution to mitigate the foundation failure. I am responsible for every project and we promise to meet all of your expectations. – Peter Zoschak

California Contractors License – 970526
Specialty D-30 California Contractors License – 970526
Workers Compensation Insurance – 9088991
Contractors Liability Insurance – 100076409
Surity Bond – 205708

The Proof is in the Experience

We’ve recently added two new things to our website to show you just how serious we are about what we do. We want to share our experience with our customers!

Our Experience Profile

We’ve added our company profile with all of our license information and a rundown on our experience in the foundation repair industry. This document also includes our insurance information and more work experience examples. We can back up what we do with the experience and credentials needed in our industry and we just wanted to share this with you!

Foundations on the Level's contractor's license

Case Studies

The second thing that we added is two new case studies, with more to come, showcasing our foundation repair work here in California. We’ve been lucky enough to be a part of some incredible jobs with equally incredible clientele. You can read about our work on The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel at Berkeley Marina as well as a really unique job we did at a Laguna Beach Home with a natural cave right below it. We are up to these challenging jobs!

Case studies are important because they show real-world applications of our services. We’ve chosen to include one residential case study and one commercial case study so you can see we are experts in both areas of work in Southern California.

To learn more or to ask us questions about our case studies, please feel free to contact us!

Click here to read about the owner of FOUNDATIONS ON THE LEVEL and his personal experience.

Why Are Your Porch Steps Pulling Away From Your Stoop?

It’s Time to Take a Closer Look at Your Porches, Patios, and Steps.

porch steps pulling away from a porch
Cracked porch steps pulling away from stoop.

It is nearly here: Spring. This is a time when we tend to start spending even more time outside. It is also a good time to step out and take a closer look at your porches, patios, and steps. Have you noticed anything that raises your eyebrows? If you have issues such as the porch pulling away from your stoop, or new or worsening cracks or voids in your landings or stairs, you may be experiencing foundation failure. At Foundations on the Level, we can help you identify these issues, their causes, and offer foundation repair solutions to solve the problem

What Causes Porch Steps to Pull Away?

Foundation issues are caused by the moisture levels in the soil around homes and businesses. If the soil has a lot of moisture, It will expand. If it becomes dry, it will then shrink back up. As a result, the foundation will shift, and settle resulting in the porch steps pulling away from the stoop, or will cause cracks to form or worsen. During the spring months in Southern California, it is typical to see a mix of rainy and dry conditions so fluctuations in the soil can be expected.

When is it Time to Call a Professional?

Have you discovered that your porch steps are pulling away from your stoop? It may be time to give the professionals at Foundations on the Level a call. If you have new or worsening issues, it is cause for concern and you may be experiencing foundation failure. Foundations on the Level has just the right expertise, equipment, and products to guarantee you a stable foundation that will last for many years. We specialize in installing resistance piers and helical piles to raise and steady your foundation. All of our products are manufactured by Earth Contact Products. ECP is the number one manufacturing company in the foundation repair industry. 

Start With a Free Inspection of Your Foundation including Your Porch, Patio, and Stairs.

Foundations on the Level offers property owners a free inspection with a report so that you know for sure that you are getting the right foundation repair for your home or business.  If you gave your porch, patio, and stairs a closer look this spring, and would like to find out about a free inspection, contact us today at 760-889-8150.

Do You Know the Signs of Foundation Settlement? (Video)

Do you know the signs of foundation problems related to settlement? Knowing the signs can save you money in the long run. Foundation repairs are much less expensive than foundation replacement. Sticking doors or windows, drywall cracks, interior or exterior cracks in the foundation, countertops pulling away from the wall or your chimney pulling away from the home are all indicators of foundation settlement and could be a serious issue.

If you are a homeowner with any of these issues contact Foundations on the Level for a free estimate today. 

Read more – Article: Solutions for Foundation Settlement

Repairing Cracked Foundations

Foundation cracks are a common foundation problem in California. Our climate is hot and dry, which doesn’t make for great support for foundations. While foundation problems are never a fun thing to go through, you can rest assured Foundations On The Level has the tools and experience when it comes to repairing cracked foundations.

Process of Repairing Cracked Foundations

foundation cracks

The Inspection

Before we begin work on your foundation, we’ll first want to inspect it. Foundation inspections ensure that we understand the underlying cause of the problem. This will help us choose the right repair method for your specific problems, and to be able to provide an estimated cost for repairs.

Determining the Best Repair Method

There are different types of foundation cracks that require different materials and repair methods. For instance, if you have an active foundation crack that is expanding and growing longer in length, we will need to address the issue of movement, as well as actually repair the crack itself.

Repairing Foundation Cracks

Depending on the method used, and the size of the project, repairing foundation is a fairly quick process. Once we’re able to determine the best repair method and gather materials, we can usually complete repairs fairly quickly.

If piers are needed to stabilize or lift your foundation, we will dig out targeted areas around your foundation in order to place the piers where they need to go. We use small excavation equipment, or shovels in order to keep your property and landscaping intact.

Once the piers are in place and at depth, we can then transfer the load of your home onto the piers and begin the lifting process if necessary. During the lifting process, we monitor each pier location’s progress to ensure we are lifting everything effectively and safely.

Contact Foundations On The Level to Repair Cracked Foundations

Have you noticed cracks in your foundation? Contact us today to set up a time for an inspection. We’ll be happy to work with you to come up with a safe and effective foundation repair strategy.

Slab Foundation Repair

Need slab foundation repair services? We’ve got you covered! Whether your foundation has settled, has cracks, or needs to be leveled, we can repair your slab foundation in no time.

Slab Foundation Repair Methods

Slab Leveling

If your home has sloped floors, or is sinking in a certain location of your home, we can level out your slab using polyurethane foam. Polyurethane foam injection is a quick and simple process that yields long-lasting results.

Foundation Crack Repair

If your foundation has settled and has cracks, we can fill and fix those cracks to avoid further damage. Repairing foundation cracks is more than simply filling the cracks. Prior to any repairs, we’ll first need to determine whether or not the cracks are active. Our approaches will be different for active cracks because we’ll need to account for future movement.

Raising Settled Slab Foundations

If your foundation has settled, we can lift and level your foundation to it’s original location. Settling is one of the most common foundation problems due to soil movement. When the supporting soil beneath your home moves or shifts, your home can move along with it. In order to repair and reverse foundation settlement, we’ll use a variety of repair techniques to ensure your foundation won’t budge in the future!

Contact Foundations On The Level for Slab Foundation Repairs

Before starting on repairs, we’ll schedule an inspection to ensure we understand the root of the problem. Knowing where your foundation problems are coming from will help us choose the foundation repair method that is going to take care of your issues once and for all. Contact us to schedule an inspection today!

Solutions for a Settling Foundation

Foundation settlement can happen for a variety of reasons, and at any point in time. While foundation settlement is common, it’s important to know your options when looking for solutions for a settling foundation.

solutions for settling foundation

Solutions for Foundation Settlement

Steel Push Piers

Steel push piers are driven deep into the soil to lift and support weak foundations. Push piers are one of the most common foundation repair products used today because they provide permanent results, with little to no disturbance to the structure, or its surroundings. Push piers are used in circumstances where the foundation needs to be lifted.

Installing push piers is a fairly simple and quick process compared to other home improvement projects. For the most part, the installation is non-intrusive and is able to be completed within a day or two, depending on the size of the project. During installation you are still able to stay in your home. You likely won’t notice movement, or shaking during installation. 

Helical Piers

Helical piers, sometimes referred to as helical piles, are large foundation “screws” that are mechanically drilled into the soil. We use helical piers in projects that have unstable soil conditions because we are able to drive the piers far below any active soils. Once a stable, load-bearing strata has been reached, we connect a foundation pier bracket that transfers the weight of the structure onto the pier. 

Installing helical piers is a similar process to installing push piers. The main difference between the two products is that push piers are driven into the soil, while helical piers are drilled into the soil. Both processes have little to no disturbance to the structure or its surroundings. The installation process is monitored from start to finish. This ensures that the helical piers are drilled to the correct depth, and that capacity is verified.

If you’re looking for solutions for a settling foundation, contact us at 760-889-8150 for more information. Upon inspection, we will work with you to determine what the best process is for your foundation’s needs.

Underpinning Helps DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel at Berkeley Marina

Underpinning helped stablize a building at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel at Berkeley Marina. Built on soft soil, the building tilted more than 20 inches.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel at Berkeley Marina stabilized with underpinning

FOUNDATIONS ON THE LEVEL was part of a huge project to use underpinning to fix a sinking hotel. The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel at Berkeley Marina is located less than 5 miles from Emeryville and only 20 minutes from the Oakland International Airport. The hotel is situated on Berkeley Marina.

In early 2011, Helfrich-Associates was asked to examine the hotel and evaluate the structural integrity of a portion of the hotel.

Uneven soil conditions caused tilting

The hotel, built in the 1970s, had a building that was suffering from tilting due to uneven soil conditions.

The building in question, No. 3, was built on a 12-inch thick, reinforced mat foundation that was not sufficient to deal with the settling of soft soils. As a result, the building had tilted more than 20 inches.

Built over a former landfill, the hotel was as close as 20 feet from the bay. Over the years, differential settlement had caused cracking of floor tiles, racking of doors and window frames, separation between cabinets and walls, and roof runoff to enter the building.

The project included analyzing the structural conditions of the building, determining subsurface conditions below the building, evaluating the tilting history of the building, and preparing foundation lifting and stabilization recommendations.

Building now supported on deeper, more uniform soil

Helfrich-Associates determined the best way to level the building was to design and have Foundations On The Level implement a deep underpinning solution to support the building on deeper, more uniform soils.

The proposed solution included building a new foundation under the existing foundation using 3-inch diameter steel resistance piers.

This type of system is installed by using the weight of the building as a reaction force to push the piers into the ground until they reach sufficient resistance.

Due to the very soft soil conditions – combined with the weight of the building (more than 10,000 tons) – the solution required the installation of 252 resistance piers.

Steel Piers Stabilizes Laguna Beach Home With Natural Cave Below

Foundations On The Level used steel piers to help lift and stabalize a Laguna Beach ocean-front home with a natural sea cave beneath.

As with many Southern California beach communities, Laguna Beach’s premier ocean-view home sites sit atop craggy buffs. They are often located high above the sandy beaches and picturesque blue waves that rush to the shore.

Laguna Beach ocean-view home with natural sea cave beneath.
A natural cave beneath a Laguna Beach ocean-front property provided a challenge.

We were asked by a Laguna Beach homeowner to evaluate the geology of his home in preparation for foundation repairs.

Large cave presented a challenge

What showed potential concern was the stability of the home’s site. The home is located on a bluff above the beach and includes a natural cave beneath the property.

The sea cave itself is about 50 feet wide and 30 feet deep. It has an arc-shaped roof, and at higher tides, the ocean flows over the floor of the cave.

We recommended that the homeowner install resistance steel piers to lift and stabilize the foundations of the home in 18 locations.

Foundations On The Level installed pier system

Foundations On The Level installed the pier system to stabilize the floors, which was about -3 inches out of level.

After the building was lifted, the void space under the building was filled with structural foam. The foam is no heavier than 4-pounds-per-cubic-foot. It restored the support to the soil and assisted in preventing settlement of the building on the weak soils.

Once the lifting and stabilization were completed, Helfrich-Associates determined that the building is structurally sound based on published criteria for evaluating building floor and foundation tilt.

Steve Helfrich, PE
Helfrich-Associates

How to Fix Uneven Sloping Floors

Uneven and sloping floors are signs of foundation settlement. In addition to your sloping floors, you’ll likely notice a few other signs. Drywall cracks and gaps between your foundation and baseboards often accompany the uneven floors. Throughout this post, we’ll walk you through how we fix uneven, sloping floors.

foundation repairs for uneven sloping floors

In most cases, foundations need to be raised in order to reverse and prevent further foundation problems. In order to do this, we install steel resistance piers, also referred to as helical piers.

Helical piers are a permanent foundation repair solution. In order to install the piers, we drill beneath any shifting soil. Once we’re able to reach a stable, load-bearing strata, we connect a steel foundation bracket to the helical pier and your home’s foundation to prevent any further settlement. From there we’re able to lift and level your foundation. Although this process might seem overwhelming and intimidating, it is actually minimally invasive. Majority of the time, you are still able to live in your home while we are working on your foundation. We perform all of the work outside of the home, and with minimal disruption. However, in some projects, we may need to work from the inside, but you will not need to vacate your property.

Additionally, our installers are ECP certified, and continue learning and training to stay up-to-date on all of the current technologies and structural support solutions. We are always equipped with the most advanced products and solutions for foundation repair and structural support on the market.

If you live within our service area, contact us to schedule an inspection. Inspections and estimates are free for property owners. During our inspection, we will look at your foundation to create a customized plan on how to move forward.

What is a Floor Level Survey?

Southern California Floor Level Survey for uneven slab

Your house can be moving and you don’t even know it. You also can’t know the extent of the problem without professional help.

At Foundations on the Level, we use professional tools to conduct a comprehensive floor level survey to find the reason why the footings of your home are moving.

Some foundation companies will tell you all you have to do to see if you have foundation settlement is to check for sloping floors. But putting a ball on the floor and seeing if it will roll isn’t really giving you that much information. You might have differential footing movement. This can cause your floors to be uneven and you need a detailed report telling you exactly what you need to do to fix it.

This is where a floor level survey comes in. At Foundations on the Level, we use special tools to give exact measurements of your floor to see if you need foundation piers, smart jacks, or helical tiebacks and if so, how many. We can also tell you exactly where and how we need to install them. This is a forensic test for your home’s foundation. You can see a sample report showing above. It shows the number of piers and where they will be installed around the foundation. It will also show if other solutions are needed such as slab cracks filled with polyurethane.

The solutions we provide are comprehensive so you don’t have to worry about foundation settlement and additional foundation repairs in the future. Our goal is to find a permanent solution to your foundation problems.

Floor level surveys are part of what we do with each foundation inspection. Only then can you feel confident that the solution we’re providing is right for you home. For questions on floor level surveys or our free inspection process for homeowners, give us a call anytime at (760) 889-8150.

Understanding Foundation Cracks and Knowing When to Repair Them

understanding foundation cracks

The best way to know how to repair foundation cracks is to understand why they happened in the first place. In this post we’re outlining the different types of cracks, how they form, and letting you know when they need to be repaired. In some cases, cracks in your foundation aren’t always a cause for concern.

Types of Foundation Cracks

Hairline Cracks

These nonstructural foundation cracks are generally vertical, and aren’t a cause for concern. These cracks include settlement cracks and shrinkage cracks. They are generally less than 1/32″ in width.

Especially in new construction homes, some cracking from settling is normal, and to be expected. More serious settlement can cause larger cracks, but so long as the cracks remain hairline, they aren’t a cause for concern.

Shrinkage cracks appear within the first few years of the home being built due to stress caused by the concrete shrinking as it dries. These are common and aren’t structural in nature. On their own, shrinkage cracks aren’t a cause for concern.

Vertical Cracks

These types of cracks run straight up and down, or within 30 degrees of vertical. Vertical cracks in walls usually appear due to concrete shrinkage if you have a newer home.

Even if your home isn’t new construction and vertical cracks appear, they are not usually a structural issue. However, over time, this type of crack will allow for water and insects to easily enter your home.

You will want to watch for any moisture, or a rusty looking discoloration in or near the crack. To repair a vertical crack, or make it water-tight, we will use a high-density polyurethane foam to fill in any gaps and voids within the concrete. In some cases, we will use other waterproofing methods throughout the rest of the basement if needed.

Diagonal Cracks

Diagonal cracks are often caused by differential settling of the foundation. Differential settling can happen at any time, whether the house is new or old. This type of settling is caused by a change in the ground conditions underneath the footings, which is why one end of the crack will generally be larger than the other.

They are often harmless, but not always. The most troublesome type of diagonal crack isn’t really a diagonal crack at all. Stair-step cracks in brick or concrete block foundation walls can indicate serious structural issues.

If it is just a hairline, and it doesn’t grow, it probably isn’t structural. Larger stair-step cracks, however, should be looked at by a foundation repair professional, as should other diagonal cracks that are growing or change direction.

Diagonal cracks, assuming they are not structural in nature, can be repaired using the same method we mentioned earlier. However, with diagonal cracks, more foam is typically needed to account for additional future movement.

Horizontal Cracks

A horizontal crack in the foundation is a structural concern. Horizontal cracks are a sign that your foundation might be failing.

Sometimes this is because the damaged foundation can no longer withstand the pressure and weight of the structure. These cracks will appear on load-bearing foundation walls, and develop below grade.

Other times, horizontal cracks in a below-grade foundation wall could be caused by hydrostatic pressure from water-logged soil pressing inward on the wall. If the pressure becomes more than the wall can bear, it will begin to bow inward and crack horizontally.

Tip: Monitor Your Foundation Cracks

If you notice new cracks in your foundation, especially if your home isn’t new, don’t simply write them off as unimportant and forget about them.

Instead, monitor them monthly for growth.

A growing hairline crack, at minimum, might eventually need to be filled to prevent water infiltration.

Also, while vertical and diagonal cracks generally aren’t big deals structurally, there are exceptions (like if you have multiple horizontal cracks in a small area). Monitoring the length and width of these cracks can give you a better idea on if the cracking is minor or if there is an on-going issue causing the damage.

Fixing Structural Foundation Cracks

If you have horizontal or stair-step cracks, you will eventually need to fix to them the same way as the vertical or diagonal cracks.

It does no good, however, to seal them when the underlying problem isn’t fixed. The cracks will just open up again, and other problems caused by the structural issues will only continue to grow.

If unstable soil beneath your home is the culprit, you might need foundation underpinning, where a professional foundation contractor installs a piering system that extends down to a load-bearing strata of soil.

If hydrostatic pressure is making your foundation wall bow, helical tiebacks or plate anchors might be in order, anchoring the wall in the soil outside to provide a counteracting force.

These repairs won’t fix the cracks. That requires an epoxy or foam injection or some other true crack repair method. These fixes will, however, remove the stresses that were causing the cracks to grow in the first place, allowing any cracks repairs to provide long-term benefits.

When In Doubt, Contact a Foundation Crack Repair Professional

All of the information listed here is general, and not all cracks are created equal. If you notice a crack growing or if you are experiencing other symptoms that might point to deeper foundation issues, don’t hesitate to contact a reputable foundation repair company. If all you need is crack filler, we’ll tell you that.

Foundation issues aren’t something to mess around with. It is better to be safe and have the peace of mind that everything is good than to let a potential problem fester.

For any of your foundation crack concerns and foundation repairs needs, contact us for a free quote.

Hot Dry Weather a Fire Hazard

It’s also a Foundation Hazard for Southern California Homes

We’ve been dealing with a hot, dry patch of weather with low humidity. This poses a fire threat to our area and you should be aware. What you might not be aware of is that this type of weather is also a threat to your home. How? Dry weather over extended periods can lead to foundation problems. It causes soil shrinkage and this leads to foundation problems. Here’s a bit more information on what to look for.

 

 

Soil Shrinkage – What to Look For

Depending on how much clay is in the soil around your home you may be affected by the shrink-swell capacity of the soil around your foundation. It’s important to note that you can also see damage around your pool, driveway, sidewalks, anywhere there is soil surrounding the structure. The high the level of clay minerals in the soil the more they have the capacity to shrink and swell.

You need to look for the following:

soil shrinkage leads to foundation problems in SoCal
  • Large cracks in walls
  • Cracks in foundations
  • Buckling of driveways, roads, sidewalks
  • Jammed doors
  • Jammed windows
  • Countertops pulling away from the walls
  • Cove joint cracks
  • Garage column cracks
  • Steps or stairs separating from structures

Another important thing to note is that the shrinking and swelling of soil can be cyclical with the weather patterns. When there are swings in the weather and the soil shrinks and swells often this can cause quite a bit of damage.

What can you do?

Keep your gutters clear of debris. Keep good track of your downspouts to make sure they are taking water down and away from your home. The problem is, both of these DIY solutions are for when we have rain. So what about when it is dry? Be aware. There are a lot of things that are beyond our control as home or business owners. If you see any of the symptoms listed above, get in touch with a professional for advice. We can let you know the severity of the problem and if needed, provide you with a plan for the extra support you need when there is soil shrinkage and your foundation is at stake. Need help? Contact us today.

Help Prevent Foundation Problems

how to help prevent foundation issues

While many foundation issues are due to natural occurrences over time, there are a few things you can do as a homeowner to help prevent foundation problems. Below are 5 ways you can help prevent foundation problems for your home!

How to Prevent Foundation Problems:

Foundation Problem Prevention Tip # 1: Maintain your Lawn

Maintaining your lawn not only gives your house great curb appeal, but it can also help with reducing the effects of erosion. Grass and other plants with strong root systems help to hold the soil surrounding your foundation in place.

Foundation Problem Prevention Tip # 2: Clean Your Gutters Regularly

Cleaning out your gutters is important for preventing foundation issues. If gutters get clogged, water overflows. When water overflows from the gutters, it seeps down the side of the home. When water runs directly down the side of the foundation, it can seep into small cracks in the foundation itself. Over time, water can erode the surface of the soil surrounding your foundation, exposing it to the elements and creating gaps within the soil.

Foundation Problem Prevention Tip # 3: Repair Cracks in Concrete

If your sidewalk or driveway cracks near your home, you should have a professional repair these things as soon as possible. Not correctly repairing cracks will only allow for further damage to these areas, and eventually, your foundation as well.

Foundation Problem Prevention Tip # 4: Install a Retaining Wall

If you have hills in your yard sloping toward your home, or your house is located on a slope, consider installing a retaining wall. Retaining walls help reduce erosion by keeping soil from moving downhill. And if you have a retaining wall, it’s important to maintain it.

Foundation Problem Prevention Tip # 5: Have your Foundation Inspected

If you notice sudden drops in elevation in the soil surrounding your foundation, or if cracks appear in or around your home, have your foundation inspected. If you live within our service areas, contact us for a free quote!

Concrete Slab Repair

leveling out concrete, slab repair

Wondering when you should hire an expert to repair your concrete slab? This post outlines a few concrete problems that you need to hire a professional for.

Cracks in Concrete Slab

Not all cracks in concrete are cause for concern, but we do recommend having a professional inspect your home if you do happen to notice any cracks. It’s always better to catch a problem early and be able to effectively repair it from the start, rather than allowing the problem to worsen over time. Knowing the type of the crack can help diagnose what the problem is, as well as how to go about fixing them. Expansion cracks, cracks from plastic shrinkage, and settling cracks are a few types of cracks that professionals will look for to help locate the source your foundation problems. You can learn more about these types of common concrete cracks in a previous blog post!

Sloping Concrete Slab

Fluctuating weather conditions, improper soil treatment before pouring a concrete slab, and regular wear and tear can all cause a concrete slab to slope. As the ground beneath the slab settles, the concrete can sink, or slope to one side. As time passes and the ground settles further, the concrete can sink or slope more, adding additional pressure to the slab, and can ultimately cause the slab to crack. It is best to contact a professional as soon as you notice any sloping or sinking in your concrete slab.

Uneven Concrete Slabs

Similar to sloping concrete, uneven concrete can also be caused by different weather conditions and settling. You’ll likely see uneven slabs in places like driveways, pool decks, sidewalks, and patios. Areas where concrete butts up to another piece of concrete are more prone to excessive movement. While uneven slabs in these areas may not need to be repaired immediately, the sooner you can stabilize the movement beneath the concrete slabs, the better.

If you need to repair your concrete slab, we offer free estimates, and perform foundation repairs that can keep your home structurally sound for years to come. Contact us to set up an inspection!

Around the House in Carlsbad, CA

What are the most common problems we see in Carlsbad?

So many of the calls we receive from our Carlsbad customers start with something small. Something that people aren’t even sure is a true problem.

“I have a small crack in my ceiling, should I be worried?”

“I noticed my steps have separated from my foundation, is this a big problem?”

People generally are just around the house and they notice something that wasn’t there before. Then, like we all do, they go to Google and search:

Are you seeing a pattern here? I bet you are….cracks (among a few other things!) So how serious are these cracks and do they REALLY mean a problem is happening underneath your home?

Err on the side of caution ⚠️

Here is our recommendation to Southern California homeowners:

What does it hurt to get it checked out?

If you notice cracks, even if they are just hairline cracks, it’s worth having a foundation repair expert take a look. We live in an area, whether you are talking about Carlsbad or other parts of Southern California, that is prone to movement and changes in the ground around your home.

The cracks you are finding might just be from minor settlement but they truly can be a sign of something bigger. Especially if you are seeing more than one item on that list above. A few other items to keep your eyes on? Countertops pulling away from the wall, cracked tiles, cracked molding, or cracks in the joint where walls meet – these are all potential signs of problems.

We offer free estimates, and perform foundation repairs that can keep your home structurally sound. Call us – ask questions – and have us take a look. We’re here to help and proud to serve Carlsbad and Southern California. Thanks for reading!

How to Find a Foundation Repair Company in San Diego

Our homes are usually our biggest investments. They protect our belongings and shelter our loved ones. When there is a foundation problem, it can affect the rest of the house. If you are in need of a foundation repair company in San Diego, we are here to help.

How to find a foundation repair company if you need foundation repairs in San Diego

Discovering you have a foundation problem can be scary, but if you have the right contractor, the process can be a little less frightening. Ignoring the problem won’t make it go away and it won’t heal itself. The longer the problem goes, the more money and time it will take to repair your home.

A small problem can turn into a big problem. It’s better to have the original issue repaired before it turns into a larger structural issue.

What Does a Foundation Repair Contractor Do?

If you’re going to hire a foundation repair contractor to work on your San Diego home, it makes sense that you would want to know what they do. You must educate yourself so that you know whether a contractor is trustworthy or trying to scam you.

A good foundation contractor can handle most any repair that has to deal with foundation problems. For example, they can repair floor and wall cracks, lift sunken slabs, and repair brick or concrete walls.

When they are done repairing your concrete, your misaligned doors and windows should be back to normal, cracks should no longer be leaking, and floors should be level.

If the foundation contractor is reliable, they’ll not only repair any damage but fix the cause of the problems. It doesn’t do any good to patch a crack if the foundation is going to continue to settle and cause more damage.

What to Look For in a Reliable Foundation Contractor in San Diego

Before we get too far into how to select a good foundation repair company, let’s get one thing out of the way. Don’t hire a company based solely on them having the lowest bid. Your home’s stability is not the place to cut corners.

If a contractor’s bid seems too good to be true, it probably is. If a contractor cuts costs through cheap materials, taking shortcuts, or not taking all the necessary steps for a complete repair, you and your family could be in danger. A trustworthy and honest contractor will be upfront with the costs and show you why their bid is the way it is.

Here are some other things to look for when shopping for a foundation contractor in the San Diego area.

Customizes the Solution to Your Situation

An honest contractor will inspect your property and provide you with a solution and estimate. (Most good ones will provide this service for free.) Once they inspect your foundation they will determine what is causing the problem and the best way to fix it.

If you tell a contractor that your home has foundation problems and they tell you what the solution is, move on to the next company. There are different ways to take care of foundation issues. Your home may need resistance or helical piers, wall anchors, or slab leveling, depending on the situation.

If the wrong solution is used, you may have even bigger problems in the future. One-size-fits-all does not work for foundation repairs.

Uses Quality Foundation Repair Products

At Foundations on the Level, we utilize American Made foundation products of the highest quality from Earth Contact Products, also known as ECP. ECP’s foundation repair solutions such as helical piers, helical anchors, push piers, and more, have shown over time to be strong, reliable, and long lasting. When you know that the workmanship and the products are both top notch, you know you will be able to breath a sigh of relief when the job is done.

Provides a Good Warranty

If you do your homework, you will probably hire a reliable contractor that does good work. That doesn’t, however, mean you shouldn’t protect yourself. A good contractor will offer a warranty that covers the work done. The contractor doesn’t want to do repairs for free, so by offering a warranty, they are showing that they have confidence in their work.

A good warranty shows that the contractor stands behind their work and wants you to be confident in your repairs.

Experience, Skill, and Knowledge

The most important things a contractor can bring to a repair aren’t tools or products. The experience, skill, and knowledge of their workers play a big part in how the repair is going to go. The contractor must know a lot of technical information to make sure the repair matches what your building needs.

When looking at foundation repair contractors in the San Diego area, look at how long they’ve been in business. Companies that have been around for a long time, not only must have satisfied customers, but they’ve experienced and worked with just about any situation you can imagine.

Choose the Right Foundation Repair Company in San Diego

The more you know about your foundation and home, the better prepared you will be when talking with potential contractors. A good foundation repair contractor will work with you from beginning to end, keeping you informed about what has happened, what is being done, and what to expect next.

FOUNDATIONS ON THE LEVEL would like to be your foundation repair contractor. However, we also want you to be comfortable with your decision. We’re confident in our work and reputation and welcome you to look at all of your options. We think you’ll be happy working with us and satisfied with the results.

Contact us today to learn more about foundation repair for your San Diego home.

Prevent a Settling Foundation

There are many reasons that your foundation may be settling. A sinking foundation can cause cracks, uneven floors, and other structural problems. When you suspect that you have a sinking foundation, you should have a trusted contractor take a look and determine the cause and the best solution.

Prevent Your Foundation From Sinking

foundation repair can fix settling homes in San Diego, CaliforniaThere are some steps you can take around your San Diego property to help prevent your foundation from settling. Your foundation is probably the most important part of your home, so it must be strong and stable.

Foundations in California may deal with a variety of issues that can cause them to settle. Torrential rains, seismic events, landslides, and other problems can negatively impact the foundation of your home.

As much as we would love your business, we would much rather you have a stable house. Here are some tips that we’ve gathered over the years that we think can help you keep your foundation strong and level.

Drain Water Away

As we have experienced lately, we can get a lot of rain in the San Diego area. The rainwater must be drained away from the home. Oversaturated soil can place tremendous pressure on foundations and pooling water can enter your home.

A good drainage system can move water away from the house, preventing it from impacting the structure.

An important part of the drainage system is the downspout. The water should run off your roof, into clear gutters, and then through the downspouts. We recommend the downspouts discharge the water no less than 5 feet away and preferably 10 feet away from the foundation.

Another option is to bury the downspout to drain into a storm drain or other location on the property.

While walking around your property, make sure that the lawn slopes away from your foundation. If the soil is flat or sloping towards your home, the water can pool against the foundation walls, causing problems in the soil and the concrete. The general rule of thumb is a slope of 6 inches per 10 feet. If you are unable to grade the earth, you may want to invest in installing French drains to help with drainage.

Droughts Can Cause Problems, Too

Even though the San Diego area can have heavy rains, the pattern for the last few years has been drought conditions. When the soil dries out, it will shrink or contract, causing the foundation to lose its support. The foundation walls can crack or settle.

A sprinkler system can help, but you can also install French drains. A French drain can allow water to more deeply penetrate the soil. Use a rain barrel to collect and reuse the rain when we do get it.

Place Concrete Properly

When designing your property, make sure that concrete surfaces such as patios, sidewalks, and driveways are constructed in such a way that the water drains away from the home. Also, one side of the house shouldn’t have a large concrete surface and the other side a garden that is watered regularly. The imbalance in moisture content can cause your home to begin tilting, causing structural problems.

Foundation Settling Solutions

If your home does begin to exhibit foundation problems, a trusted contractor like FOUNDATIONS ON THE LEVEL can help fix the cause and repair the damage that has occurred. A reputable foundation company will provide you with a free inspection of your property. This inspection will determine not only what needs to be done to reverse the damage, but also how to prevent it from recurring.

If the foundation is sinking, resistance piers or helical piers may be installed to raise and level your home. There is a difference in quality between piers, so make sure your contractor is using something you can rely on. FOUNDATIONS ON THE LEVEL only uses piers from ECP, the leader in the industry.

The theory behind each pier is the same. The resistance piers are driven into the soil until they reach soil that can support the home. The foundation is lifted onto the piers and then hydraulically lifted to level or to the height that is desired.  Helical piers work the same way but are “screwed” into the ground until they reach the desired depth. Both offer a strong base for the foundation and an experienced contractor will be able to determine which method is best for each situation.

free inspections

Contact a trusted local contractor to help you with your sinking foundation before your home starts developing serious structural damage.

Choosing a Foundation Repair Contractor

Your home is probably your biggest investment, so you must hire a foundation contractor that will take care of your property.

Tips for choosing a foundation repair contractor

The work must be done right to protect the safety of your family and the structural integrity of your home. Choosing the wrong foundation contractor can cost you money, stress, and heartache. Don’t select a foundation contractor based solely on price or that they’re the brother-in-law of your babysitter’s dentist.

Here are some tips to making sure you select a good foundation repair company, like FOUNDATIONS ON THE LEVEL.

Do They Offer a Warranty?

A warranty is more than a piece of paper you throw in a desk and forget about. If a company doesn’t offer a warranty, that is a big red flag that they may not do a good job nor care about your home.

If a contractor offers a warranty, they are backing up their work with their reputation and their money. FOUNDATIONS ON THE LEVEL offers a 25-year warranty, meaning that you won’t have to worry about the work that they perform to keep your house stable and safe.

No business wants to do a job twice, especially when the cost is going to come out of their pocket. The warranty reinforces the fact that the company will do the job right the first time.

Read the warranty (if they even offer one) and make sure it covers their work and isn’t just a worthless piece of paper. This is the time to make sure you do your due diligence to ensure everything is above the board.

How Long Have They Been in Business?

We know that everyone has to start somewhere, but do you want a rookie practicing on your home? Not only does a company that has been in business for a long time have more experience, but it also shows that it will probably be around long after the work is done.

A long-time company will be able to back their warranties in addition to having a reputation in the area. Some sketchy companies will do a bunch of work and skip town before the bad reviews can hit. They set up in another town and pull the same scam over again.

You can find out how long a company has been in business in California by running its license number through the California Department of Consumer Affairs’ Contractors State License Board portal. The CSLB results should be to let you know when the contractor received their license.

Check Client and Building Inspector Reviews

There are plenty of places that you can read reviews of businesses. Yelp, Angie’s List, HomeAdvisor, and BBB are just some that come to mind. You will be able to read about consumers’ interactions with contractors and find out if there are any recurring problems or praises.

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) can let you know about any complaints or if they have been reported for unethical business practices. See if there are any patterns, not everyone is going to be perfect, but you can quickly see if a contractor does a good job or not.

Another good source is not as easy to access, but it is worth the time to pursue. You can get reviews from building inspectors and they can tell you about which contractors are trustworthy, competent, and reliable.

What Are Their Payment Terms?

Make sure the contractor has clear payment terms. You don’t want amounts to change during the project. Another warning sign is if the contractor wants to be paid in full before the project is completed.

Go over the contract carefully to make sure you understand the payment schedule. The contractor has certain costs that they have to cover, but they shouldn’t need to be paid before the job is done.

Get everything in writing, a verbal agreement is worthless when it comes to a disagreement.

See Licenses, Affiliations, and Credentials

Never hire an unlicensed contractor. The license is just the minimum requirement for a contractor and if they can’t even accomplish that, imagine what kind of work they’ll do!

Most contractors’ employees should have gone through some professional training and be certified in their respective specialties. Affiliations are a good sign that a foundation repair company has experience in the skills and trades that are needed to be a good contractor.

Make Sure They Have the Required Permits

One way that some contractors can offer lower prices than others is to avoid obtaining the required permits. A permit means that a building inspector will need to stop by and make sure the project meets building codes.

If a contractor doesn’t get the necessary permits, that means they will avoid being inspected which also means that they can get away with using cheap materials and shoddy methods. You may save a few dollars upfront, but you are going to end up paying a lot in the end. The cost may be more than money if the repair fails and someone is injured.

How Does the Contractor Do Business?

This is a tip to keep in mind once you have narrowed your choices down to a few contractors. They have probably made your shortlist because they seem to be competent and experienced, but there are other things to keep in mind.

Some non-technical aspects that you should think about include:

  • Do they perform background checks on their employees?
  • Will they do their best to minimize damage to your lawn, home, and landscaping? What happens if something is damaged?
  • Are you expected to clean up after them at the end of the day or will they take care of their mess?
  • Will they be using your bathroom, or will the contractor have their own portable restroom?
  • How many vehicles will be at your property at any given time? Will they be causing problems for the neighbors?
  • Are their employees allowed to smoke or curse while on the job?
  • Who do you go to with concerns during the project?

Foundations on the Level logo

Don’t Skimp on Foundation Repairs

These repairs are probably only second to medical procedures in importance. You wouldn’t just use a doctor or surgeon without talking with them and finding out what is going to be done and what to expect.

It’s important to weed out the shady contractors, but it’s just as important to find a foundation contractor you are comfortable with and trust. It’s a kind of relationship and it must work smoothly for everyone involved.

All of us at FOUNDATIONS ON THE LEVEL welcome your questions and will do our part to make sure you are comfortable with working with us. You can talk to us before, during, or after a project and be treated honestly and respectfully.

free inspections

Contact us today to learn more about how FOUNDATIONS ON THE LEVEL will make sure your home is taken care of and made strong, stable, and safe once again.