A solid foundation is the key to your building’s structural integrity. However, most homes will need foundation repairs at some point. You may notice a small crack or that your house is leaning slightly. Sometimes, something as simple as soil erosion can make your foundation shift. However, there are a few tips and tricks to learn about foundation repair.

1. Know Your Foundation

Older homes may still have their original stone foundation. Some may have concrete retaining walls in front of the stone foundation to stabilize it. According to Forbes, it costs about $5,000 to lay a new foundation for a small home and $40,000 for a large home. Knowing your foundation and what you spent can help a repair company understand what they need to do before they arrive.

2. Identify Signs of Issues

Bowing walls and standing water are both signs of problems. However, a professional won’t see a bowing wall behind a bookcase, and a puddle of standing water may dry when they arrive. Knowing all the signs of foundation problems is crucial so a foundation repair company can make the appropriate repairs. Keep a list of problems and potential signs of issues to ensure you don’t forget anything.

3. Contact the Professionals

Repairing a foundation is complex. Only specific materials and methods can ensure your house is stable. This isn't something that you can do on your own. Even trying to do something on your own will instantly impact the structure of your home, and it can worsen the problems significantly. Instead, always contact professionals for this job to ensure you and your family remain safe. This can also save you money because you won’t have to hire professionals to fix a mistake which can cost more than initially hiring them.

4. Address Moisture Issues

One of the best ways to help preserve your foundation is to eliminate as much moisture as possible. Invest in basement waterproofing services to ensure water doesn’t enter your basement. Purchase a dehumidifier to help remove moisture from the air. If you have a full basement, consider getting a few plants known to help absorb moisture for a natural solution to high humidity levels.

We understand the importance of your foundation. That’s why we never cut corners on the job. We offer senior citizen and military discounts. Contact Staats Masonry LLC to schedule an estimate today.