Home ownership comes with a number of costs, from mortgage payments to insurance. But, one cost that is sometimes forgotten is foundation repair cost. Foundation problems can occur in many forms, but the signs are mostly all the same; cracks on the floors and wall, doors and windows that do not want to shut, and problems with moisture and mold. Here are some things to know about foundation repair cost and some tips on how to avoid paying more than you have to.
The Average Cost
On average, a homeowner will spend about $5,300 on foundation repair. Meaning, depending on the severity of the problem and the type of repairs that may need to be done, foundation repair cost can range anywhere from $2,500 to $10,000. While different companies will offer different rates, reputable companies will all fall within the same general price range.
What is included in these foundation repair costs estimates?
One of the biggest things that go into the foundation repair estimate is the extent of the foundation damage. With that, a company may also charge a little more if the damage is in a difficult-to-reach area that may require extra work or care. The kind of foundation that your home sits on can also play a factor in the price; slab foundation will require more care, while pier-and-beam foundations will not. Of course, another major factor in the price is the method of foundation repair that the company recommends.
How to Avoid Higher Costs
Try to catch problems early. The easiest way to avoid a very high foundation repair cost is to catch any potential foundation problems early on. This means watching for the formation of any cracks on your floors, which may also spread to the walls. If you see these cracks, then it may be in your best interest to call a foundation repair company for a professional opinion. Doing this can save you thousands of dollars in foundation repair cost. It will also mean you cut off the problem before it has a chance to spread to other parts of your home, which would just add to the overall repair costs.
When you are house hunting, you should also be looking for any signs of possible foundation damage. If you need to, get out an outside opinion before you make an official offer—know what you could potentially be buying can help save you a lot of money and grief. Some homeowner may try to do quick repairs to hide foundation problems, but without fixing it properly, the problems with only get worst and more expensive for the next person.
While foundation repair costs can be scary, it is not something you should avoid. Instead, try to catch problems early on and do not wait to call reputable foundation repair companies for some quotes. With their expertise, you can rest assured that your foundation will once again be stable and secure, and you will not have to worry about it for years to come.