Your home's foundation is an essential component of your building structure and without it, nothing else would remain standing. So, if problems with your home’s foundation arise, you should fix them as soon as you can. Many homeowners believe that foundation repair is a simple fix. However, the truth is that a foundation repair should only be handled by an experienced professional and should never be attempted as a DIY project. Here’s why!
1. There are many kinds of foundation problems.
From home settling, cracked walls, damaged piers, and uneven floors, to water damage all call for specific repairs. With a wide variety of foundation issues, each one requiring a different solution, foundation repairs are not a one size fits all solution. They must be carefully assessed and a plan of action determined on a case-by-case basis. For example, if you have uneven floors and a floor joist or pier is out of place, you may need a floor support system. If you have mold growing prolifically, you need professional mold remediation services, and so on.
2. The damage may extend further than you think.
When you think of foundation damage, what comes to mind? A few cracks in the concrete, maybe a small crack in your brick mortar? While that may be cause for some concern, it's likely nothing compared to the extensive damage that can be caused by foundation problems. One of the main issues with extensive foundation damage is that it often goes undetected until it's too late. By that point, the damage has often become costly to repair. And unfortunately, many homeowners only realize they have a foundation problem when warning signs happen.
3. What Goes Into Foundation Repair?
Foundation repair can be a complex process that requires the right knowledge and experience. There are many different techniques and methods that can be used to repair foundations, and each one has its own benefits and risks. It is essential to hire a professional who knows how to execute crawl space foundation repairs safely. In many cases, this involves installing new piers or pilings beneath the foundation to support it and stabilize the soil. Depending on the extent of the damage, other measures may also be necessary, such as reinforcing or replacing the foundation walls. While foundation repairs can be a large expense, it is important to remember that they are a more affordable option than allowing the foundation to continue to deteriorate.
4. Partial repair or wrong repair can hurt more than help.
If a foundation repair is not done properly, it can result in further damage to a home. In some cases, the house might be more unstable than before. It's always wise to hire a professional so you do not end up with more severe issues.