What happens when there is a plumbing leak under the foundation?

The first thing that happens during an under slab plumbing leak is that the surrounding clay soil will swell significantly in volume. The engineering term is upheaval. The slab can be cracked or a hump may develop.  If the leak is allowed to continue for a period of time then the underlying soil will can compact further and create voids.  The best decision is to fix the plumbing leak as soon as possible – but after the foundation has be evaluated and/or repaired.

How long does it take for average foundation repairs?

The time requried is based on the size of the job and the repair method utilized. The lowest quality repair methods can be easily completed in one day.  The highest quality foundation repair method, drilled piers or Bell Bottom piers, require up to three weeks for the poured concrete to cure.

How much does it cost for typical foundation repairs?

That depends.  If you want the lowest cost possible then you can find those who operate out of pickup trucks and have no insurance to protect their workers or you, the homeowner.  (Yes, the homeowner can be liable for accidents on his or her property.)

Should you choose a time-tested and proven high quality foundation repair method from an established contractor you will pay more. We are referring to drilled piers with belled feet or Bell Bottom Piers.

And some repair jobs are more extensive than others.  Sometimes only a garage area is in need of additional support.  And there are other situations where the foundation and the house is literally cracking down the center roof fulcrum – the front and back are both settling.

In general, most foundation repair job fall into a $5000 to $15,000 range.

What is the difference between piles and piers?

Piles are concrete cylinders that are stacked one on top of another in a vertical column. Piers are constructed by excavating a hole in the ground and pouring concrete into the hole. Steel rebar is usually placed into the pier when the concrete is poured. Piers are a single unit (monolithic) and able to handle much greater weights (Load Capacity).

Will my house be “like new” after the foundation repair job?

No. Keep in mind that in most instances your concrete slab foundation has cracked and lost some of its integrity.  The foundation contractor will provide additional support for those areas of need and attempt to obtain the original elevations of the house when it was new.