Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Atlanta
A home in Atlanta might experience foundation issues for multiple reasons. Some are unique to the local environment, while others are prevalent nationwide. They include:
- Soil composition: Soil with large sand or clay concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Atlanta experiences, the soil soaks up moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction presses against nearby foundations, even if the foundations keep dry.
- Standing water: Pooling water around your home can harm your foundation's integrity, especially when it collects in areas your gutters don't protect.
- Improper modifications: Roofing or landscaping work that wasn't completed to standard could lead to your foundation settling.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can enter a home's foundation through cracks, and may create stress that causes your foundation fracturing, pipes being damaged, and overall structural deterioration.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Your home's integrity depends greatly on its foundation. It's crucial to hire the top professionals possible. Focus your research on these attributes:
Licensing and Experience
In Georgia, foundation companies may be licensed as general or specialty contractors. If a company holds a specialty license, it can only perform jobs within its Secretary of State-assigned classifications. Classifications are task-specific, including such specialties as concrete tilt-up, grading, and masonry. Talk to representatives to gain additional insight into a company's experience. You should ask about local building codes, inspection processes and permit ordinances.
One of the easiest ways to evaluate a company's reputation is to explore its website. Look for the company's history and what credentials its team holds. Many top companies publish educational content for potential customers.
Customer Reviews
When you're researching a company's reputation, check out its Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile. There, you can find its rating and a list of customer reviews, both positive experiences and complaints. Complaints don't mean a contractor is unreliable. BBB reviews show how the company addressed complaints. It's a good sign if the company has settled issues proactively and appropriately. You should steer clear of a company with more negative reviews, no credentials, and no communication regarding issues.
Foundation Repair Cost in Atlanta
The cost of foundation repair can differ significantly depending on the severity of the issues and what needs to be done to resolve them. For minor foundation fractures and settling issues, you may pay as little as $1,800. However, if there is more significant deterioration, the average cost will likely fall around $2,900. More complex jobs involving digging, helical piers, or major mudjacking could cost $6,800 or more. See below the average foundation repair costs for common issues.
Common Foundation Repair Services | Average Cost |
---|---|
Crack Repair | $340 |
Leak Repair | $2,714 |
Stabilization | $4,689 |
Underpinning | $1,303 |
Waterproofing | $2,996 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Foundation Repair Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair in Atlanta
How much does foundation repair cost in Atlanta?
When do I need to waterproof my foundation?
Note that there are two kinds of waterproofing. Interior waterproofing involves installing sump pumps and drains or using sealants around a cellar. Exterior waterproofing is typically less expensive. It involves installing exterior drains and forming physical barriers between your foundation and yard.
Is foundation repair covered under my homeowners insurance?
Are there telltale signs I should avoid a particular foundation company?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
More Foundation Resources
National Foundation Repair Ranking Methodology
Sources
U.S. Census Bureau (American Communities Survey)