Why Your Garage Foundation Matters

What’s a Foundation?

• What is a foundation?
  The foundation is the base of your garage. It holds up the building and spreads the weight out to the ground.

• Why is a strong foundation important?
  A strong foundation keeps the garage from moving or breaking. It also protects from things like frost, water, and pests.

Common Problems with Garage Foundations

• Cracks:
  These can be small or big and are often caused by the ground settling or temperature changes.

• Uneven Settling:
  This happens when parts of the foundation settle at different rates, making floors sloped and doors hard to close.

• Water Damage:
  Too much moisture can make the foundation weak, leading to mold and other damage.

• Pests:
  Cracks and gaps can let pests like termites in, causing more problems.

Signs You Need to Fix Your Garage Foundation

Cracks You Can See

• Horizontal vs. Vertical Cracks:
  Horizontal cracks are usually worse and need fixing quickly.

• Why Fix Early:
  Fixing cracks early saves money and prevents bigger problems.

Uneven Floors or Walls

• How to Check:
  Look to see if the floors are sloped or if the walls tilt. You can roll a ball to test it.

• Possible Causes:
  Poor soil, water problems, or tree roots can cause uneven floors.

Water Pools

• Where Water Comes From:
  Bad drainage or leaks can cause water to pool around your garage.

• Why Water’s Bad:
  Water can lead to mold, rot, and a weaker foundation.

Doors and Windows Trouble

• Signs of Problems:
  If doors and windows start sticking or don’t close right, the foundation might be shifting.

• What to Do:
  Check the cause, make sure seals are tight, and call a pro if needed.

Checking Your Garage Foundation Yourself

What You Need

• Flashlight, level, measuring tape, notebook, camera, screwdriver.

Steps to Inspect

1. Look for cracks in the walls.
2. Check if the floor is uneven.
3. Watch for water pooling.
4. Test doors and windows.
5. Look for pests.

What to Look For

• Obvious Issues:
  Cracks, gaps, and misaligned parts.

• Hidden Problems:
  Water stains, mold, and soft spots that could mean rot or water damage.

Ways to Fix Your Garage Foundation

Fixing Cracks

• Kinds of Cracks and Fixes:
  Some cracks need a pro, others you can fix yourself.

• Epoxy vs. Foam:
  Use epoxy for strong, lasting fixes; use foam for flexible, waterproof fixes.

Slabjacking

• What It Is:
  Pumping a mix under the slab to lift it.

• When to Use:
  Good for small settling problems.

Piering

• How It Works:
  Steel piers are driven into the ground to lift and stabilize the foundation.

• Cost:
  It’s more expensive but works well for big problems.

Waterproofing

• Sump Pumps:
  These remove water to stop flooding.

• Inside vs. Outside Waterproofing:
  Inside handles water that gets in; outside stops it from getting in.

Picking the Best Repair Expert

Research and Tips

• Finding Good Pros:
  Check local listings, read reviews, and ask friends.

• Check Reviews:
  Look for good feedback and past customer stories.

Key Questions

• Licenses and Insurance:
  Make sure they have the right license and insurance.

• Experience:
  Ask about past jobs like yours.

Getting Quotes

• How to Compare:
  Look at the work details, materials, and project length.

• Understanding Contracts:
  Read terms carefully and check the warranty.

Keeping Your Garage Foundation Healthy

Good Drainage

• Gutters and Downspouts:
  They keep water away from the foundation.

• Drain Systems:
  Install French drains or trench drains to direct water away.

Regular Checks

• Annual Tips:
  Look for cracks, moisture, and other wear once a year.

• Fixing Small Issues:
  Quick fixes stop big problems later.

Landscaping Tips

• Tree and Shrub Roots:
  Roots can mess up the foundation.

• Planting Tips:
  Keep big plants away from your garage.

How Much It Costs to Fix in Canada

What Affects the Price

• Damage Type:
  Cracks, settling, water or pest problems.

• Regional Costs:
  Local labor, materials, and soil type.

Average Costs

• Common Repairs:
  Crack repairs: $500-$2,000; Slabjacking: $600-$1,600; Piering: $1,000-$3,000 per pier.

• Saving Tips:
  Regular checks, early repairs, and comparing quotes.

When to Get Help from a Pro

Checking Severity

• DIY or Pro:
  Small cracks can be DIY, big issues need a pro.

• Pro Benefits:
  Fixes are thorough and prevent future issues.

Key Signs

• Major Damage:
  Big cracks, shifting structures, or major settling need a pro.

• Constant Water Issues:
  Persistent water problems need expert help.

Real Stories from Homeowners

Examples

• Common Problems:
  Cracks, water, and uneven settling.

• Success Stories:
  Homeowners fixed problems with expert help.

Lessons Learned

• Advice:
  Inspect often, act early, and call pros for big issues.

Following this guide helps keep your garage strong and protects your home.