Foundation Repair in Greater Portland

It is important to make repairs as early as possible to stop the progression of damage. Fixing a foundation problem in its early stages is easier and more cost effective than a full foundation replacement. A failed foundation reduces a home's value by 10-20% on average, so consider the cost of not making foundation repairs in the long run.

Foundation cracks can spread over time, especially during temperature fluctuations or increased moisture (humidity, precipitation, etc). The cracks may get longer and wider, further compromising the structural integrity of your home or business. Water may seep through foundation cracks and cause moisture damage, including the potential growth of mold or mildew. The shape and behavior of your foundation cracks can help point to their cause.

Horizontal cracks travel from wall to wall and are indicative of uneven pressure placed on the foundation wall. This kind of strain can cause tilting and bowing of foundation walls over time.

Diagonal cracks indicate uneven settling over time. The crack can travel diagonally along the foundation as distinct parts of the home settle at different rates.

Stair-step cracks are similar to diagonal cracks because they can also be caused by differential settlement. Soil pressure can also cause these cracks to form along mortar joints, giving it that stair-step appearance.

One of the leading contributors to foundation failure is poor soil conditions around the foundation. Soil that is loose does not provide enough stability to hold your foundation properly in place. Fluctuating moisture levels in the surrounding soils can also affect the pressure placed on the foundation, often unevenly.

Many aspects of home repair and maintenance can be safely DIY'ed with a little preparation. However, foundation repair is not one of them. Sure, you may be able to patch some superficial foundation cracks using a kit you purchased at the store, but any significant or structural foundation work must be performed by a trained professional. Average home slab foundations can weigh 200,000+ lbs. and require specialized equipment to properly assess, lift, and repair when necessary.

If and when DIY foundation repair attempts fail and a professional must be called in, they will have to not only repair the foundation but also clean up or remove any DIY workmanship. That is more time-consuming and expensive for homeowners in the long run.

Consider calling a foundation repair professional the moment you notice potential problems with your foundation. Foundation issues can quickly worsen and become more expensive to fix, which is why we encourage Greater Portland homeowners to contact us for a free foundation repair consultation. We will send out our foundation repair experts to assess your foundation, identify any problems we can treat, and give you a fair price estimate.