What is Foundation Settling?

Foundation settling happens when the ground under a home moves or sinks, causing the foundation to shift or sink.

Why Does Foundation Settling Happen?

• Soil Erosion: When water washes away the soil under the foundation.
• Poor Construction: If the ground wasn’t prepared well before building.
• Environmental Factors: Things like earthquakes, floods, or dry spells affecting the soil.

Signs Your Foundation Might Be Settling

• Cracks in walls, floors, or ceilings.
• Doors and windows that don’t close well.
• Floors that aren’t level.

Why It’s Important to Fix Foundation Settling

Safety

If you ignore foundation settling, it can cause serious damage and make your home unsafe.

Home Value

Foundation problems can make your home worth less.

Avoid Bigger Problems

Fixing foundation issues early can stop small problems from becoming bigger and more expensive.

What Affects Foundation Repair Costs?

How Bad is the Damage?

Small cracks cost less to fix than large structural issues.

Type of Repair Needed

• Crack Repairs: Fixing small cracks.
• Slab Jacking: Lifting the foundation by pumping material under it.
• Piering/Underpinning: Adding support for big settling problems.

Where You Live

Costs can be different depending on where you live because of labor and material prices.

Foundation Material

The type of foundation (brick, concrete, stone) affects the cost.

How Easy It Is to Get to the Damaged Area

If it’s hard to reach the damaged area, it might cost more.

Types of Foundation Repairs and Costs

Crack Repairs

• Average Cost: $500 to $2,000.
• Best For: Small cracks and minor problems.

Slab Jacking

• Average Cost: $1,000 to $3,000.
• How It Works: Lifting the foundation by pumping a mixture under the slab.

Piering/Underpinning

• Average Cost: $1,000 to $3,000 per pier.
• Best For: Big settling problems needing lots of support.

Sealant and Waterproofing

• Average Cost: $1,500 to $6,000.
• Benefits: Helps prevent water damage and more foundation problems.

Extra Costs You Might Not Expect

Inspection Fees

Cost: $300 to $1,000.

Permits

Cost: $75 to $150.

Fixing the Yard

After repairs, you might need to fix your yard, which costs extra.

Additional Repairs

Foundation problems can lead to other repairs, like fixing floors, walls, or plumbing.

How to Save on Foundation Repair Costs

Regular Maintenance

Check your foundation regularly and fix small problems early.

Insurance Coverage

See if your homeowner’s insurance covers foundation repairs from natural disasters.

Financing Options

Look into loans or contractor financing to help with costs.

Picking the Right Professional

Research and Reviews

Check reviews and credentials of contractors.

Get Multiple Quotes

Ask several contractors for quotes to compare prices.

Ask Questions

Find out about the contractor’s experience, warranties, and repair timelines.

Take Action to Protect Your Home

Fixing foundation settling early can save you money and keep your home safe. If you see signs of settling, contact a professional for an inspection and get the repairs done soon.