Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Niles

Foundation issues have several possible causes. Here are the top ones for Niles residents:

• Topsoil Frost: When temperatures plunge, topsoil abruptly ices over and lower layers can't expand, forcing upper layers to heave and permanently damage infrastructure.
• Improper modifications: Landscaping or roofing work that wasn't completed to standard could result in your foundation settling.
• Aging plumbing: Niles has its fair share of older homes, with a median building year of 1959. Many of these properties use cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start to erode, leakage could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
• Standing water: Water accumulation around your home can harm your foundation's integrity, especially when it collects in areas your gutters don't reach.

How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company

When choosing a foundation contractor, you should consider your personal priorities. Ask each company on your list about the following qualities.

Licensing and Experience

Illinois doesn't issue contractor licenses at the state level, but larger cities in the Land of Lincoln will usually have their own licensing requirements and exams. We recommend contacting your local government office for more information before you begin your company search. You can also get a sense of a company's experience through the details its representatives share. Ask about its inspection methods, local code requirements, permit-pulling procedures, and fees. Contractor websites are among the best places to do your research. Typically, a business will discuss how long it's been in the industry. It might also upload articles to assist potential clients.

Customer Reviews

When you're researching a company's standing, go to its Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile. There, you can find its rating and a list of customer reviews, both positive experiences and complaints. Remember that negative feedback doesn't necessarily mean a contractor is incompetent. BBB reviews also show how companies resolve complaints. A proactive team that works toward excellent outcomes is a good one. Steer clear of a business if you don't see clear communication about problems.

Foundation Repair Cost in Niles

The cost of foundation repair can vary quite a bit depending on the scale 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 $1,900. However, if there is more significant deterioration, the average cost will likely fall around $3,800. More complex jobs involving tunneling, helical piers, or major mudjacking could cost $7,200 or more.

See below the average foundation repair costs for common issues.

More Foundation Resources

National Foundation Repair Ranking Methodology

Mold Remediation Cost Guide

Sources