Foundation repair can seem like a stressful and long process, but it’s not as time and labor intensive as one might think. When people associate a foundation repair job they think of heavy machinery and total excavation. With the right team of experts, most jobs take a day to bring back the structural stability and longevity of your home. When homeowners face foundation problems, addressing them as soon as they appear can prevent further damage and costly repairs. It is not all bad, in this blog we will discuss what to expect during the home foundation repair process. Understanding each stage, from the initial inspection to the final post-repair checks, can help make the experience less stressful and more manageable.
Initial Inspection
Before any repair work begins, a professional foundation repair company, like Maestro’s Foundation Repair, will conduct an inspection of your home’s foundation. This assessment is free when we inspect your home and helps you determine the extent of the damage and the best repair method. During the inspection, specialists will look at the signs that a home may have foundation issues. For example, they will examine for cracks in walls and floors, sticking doors and windows, sloping floors, etc. Once complete, the results of the inspection will help determine whether repairs are needed and what techniques should be used to restore the home’s stability.
Understanding the Repair Plan
After the inspection is complete, the foundation repair company will present a detailed plan and discuss it with the homeowner. The repair method will depend on what type of foundation your home has and how bad the damage is. Some common foundation repair techniques that may be recommended include, but not limited to piering, which involves installing supports under the foundation to stabilize it. Slab jacking, a process that lifts sunken concrete slabs back into place. The repair plan will also include the time it will take to complete the job.
Most foundation repair jobs take about a day to complete. Homeowners may also want to be aware of the costs involved with foundation repair. Luckily, some foundation companies like Maestro’s Foundation Repair offer financing options if needed. Foundation repairs may seem like a significant investment at first, but it is more affordable than one may think.
Preparing Your Home for Foundation Repair
Before the foundation repair work begins, homeowners may need to take steps to prepare their property to make the repair go along faster. Start off by moving all furniture and items away from the areas where the repair will take place. In some cases, it may be wise to temporarily relocate your items to a self storage facility. Foundation repairs can be noisy, so it is important to take time out of the house while the repair is being done. Additionally, access to certain rooms of the home may be more difficult to get to while the repair is in process. Remember to communicate with the repair team about what to expect and what exactly you should do to plan accordingly.
The Repair Process
The foundation repair process begins with excavation or getting access to the affected area. This lets the repair team reach the damaged areas. If you have a slab on grade foundation, this will require digging around the perimeter of your home or breaking the concrete of your foundation, after doing so they place steel or concrete piers that are driven into the ground to stabilize and lift the foundation. For slab jacking, a special grout mixture, called polyurethane foam, is injected beneath sunken concrete to raise it back to its original level. In cases where waterproofing is needed, drainage systems and moisture barriers may be installed to protect against water damage by the foundation repair company. Each step of the process is carefully done to ensure your home’s structural integrity. Homeowners will also be updated on progress as the work continues.
Potential Changes and Delays
Similar to any home improvement project, foundation repair can come with unexpected challenges. If weather conditions do not permit the work to be done like heavy rain, it can delay work, especially if excavation is involved.
While doing some of these repairs, additional structural issues may be discovered once repairs begin, requiring adjustments to the original repair plan. Understandably, delays can be frustrating, but working with an experienced and reputable foundation repair company can help create a seamless process and cause less disruptions and ensure that any unforeseen problems are addressed quickly.
Post-Repair Inspections and Adjustments
Once the home foundation repairs are done, a final inspection will be conducted to ensure that the foundation is level and stable. Homeowners may notice small changes over time as doors and windows as the foundation settles into its new position. While minor settling is normal, it is important to monitor the home for any signs of foundation movement. In many cases, cosmetic repairs, such as fixing drywall or placing flooring, may need to be scheduled after the foundation has fully settled. The repair company oftentimes has contacts to help homeowners with this.
Maintenance and Prevention
Foundation repairs can restore the stability of a home, but proper maintenance is the best way to prevent future issues. If you live in places like Fort Worth, Texas, homeowners should take steps to control soil moisture. Homeowners can do this by having proper drainage around the foundation. Installing a soaker hose, french drains, and addressing any water pooling near the home can help reduce the risk of future foundation damage from happening. Once every couple of months you should be inspecting your foundation. Particularly after heavy rain when it has been dry for a long period of time. This can help identify early warning signs before they develop into major problems. By following these best practices they can help protect the investment in foundation repair and maintain the home’s structural integrity for years to come.
What Homeowners Need to Know
Understanding what to expect during foundation repair can make the process less overwhelming for homeowners. From the initial inspection to maintenance after the repair is done, being prepared for each stage can help reduce stress and ensure you have a smoother experience. While home foundation repairs can be disruptive, they are essential for maintaining the safety and value of a home. Choosing a trusted foundation repair company, like Maestros Foundation Repair, asking the right questions, and following proper maintenance practices can help homeowners feel confident in their home. Contact us today for a free estimate.