Your home is your most important investment. Foundation problems can threaten that investment by causing severe structural damage and lowering the value of your home. Foundation Professionals of Florida can inspect your Jacksonville home for foundation failure and determine the best foundation repair solution for your needs.
What Causes Foundation Problems?
Most foundation issues are caused by two things: soil and water.
These, either in conjunction or alone, can impact your foundation.
Too much water can cause erosion of the soil beneath your home. Too much can cause it to dry out and shrink. When this happens, portions of the foundation will sink, or settle. Foundation settlement is among the most common causes of foundation problems.
If you have a subgrade (below ground) foundation wall, the pressure exerted by the water in the soil can eventually cause it to crack, bow, and, if it isn’t repaired, eventually collapse. Too much moisture within a crawl space foundation can cause wood rot in the beams and floor joists. If this happens, they will need to be reinforced or replaced.
Common Signs Of Foundation Problems
The most common signs of a foundation problem include:
- Wall cracks
- Floors cracks
- Ceiling cracks
- Uneven floors
- Sagging floors
- Sticking windows
- Sticking doors
- Stair-step cracks in brick or masonry.
- Leaning chimneys
- Stoops pulling away from the home
- Gaps between baseboards and the floor
For more information, see the symptoms of foundation failure and contact Foundation Professionals of Florida if you find anything out of the ordinary. We have a solution for all of the foundation issues in your home.
Foundation Repair Methods For Jacksonville Homes
Underpinning your home with quality foundation repair products can fix many settlement-related issues, whether a crawlspace, slab lifting on grade, or a basement made of poured concrete or block.
Underpinning involves sinking piers around the perimeter of your foundation until they reach a load-bearing strata of soil. The piers are then attached to the building’s footing, and our technicians hydraulically lift the foundation back to level before transferring the weight onto the piers. This both stops the stress that the settlement was causing on the home and prevents future settlement.
We offer quality foundation repair products like varieties of helical piers and push piers, both underpinning solutions, so that we can find the right fit for your home or business based upon the damage and the soil beneath it.
Some of our other common foundation repair solutions include:
- Compaction or permeation grouting – for sinkholes and settling foundations
- Wall anchors or helical tiebacks – to straighten foundation walls
- Carbon fiber repair – for bowing walls and foundation cracks
Foundation Professionals of Florida also has extensive experience in commercial foundation stabilization in Florida. We have stabilized commercial buildings such as automobile dealerships, hotels and resorts, office buildings, parking garages, restaurants, retail buildings, and theaters.
Need a Foundation Repair Contractor In Jacksonville? Give Us a Call
At Foundation Professionals of Florida, we have extensive experience in dealing with foundation repair projects big and small. Our team can diagnose your foundation problem and implement a solution that both solves the problem and prevents it from coming back. We serve much of Florida, including the Jacksonville area. Contact us to learn more.
Foundation Repair FAQs
Is It Worth It To Repair A Foundation?
The answer to this question depends on several factors, such as the severity of the foundation damage, the age of the structure, the local building codes and regulations, the type of soil and climate in the area, and the owner’s budget and long-term plans.
Repairing a foundation can be costly, ranging from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands, depending on the extent of the damage and the chosen repair method. However, ignoring foundation issues can lead to even more significant problems. Some insurance companies may not cover structural damage caused by a foundation problem, making it even more critical for property owners to address issues promptly before they become big problems that will cost a lot of money to fix.
Repairing a foundation is almost always a wise investment in the long run, as it can prevent further damage and prolong the structure’s lifespan. Additionally, it can enhance the safety and comfort of the occupants, improve the property’s curb appeal, and increase its resale value.
Can You Repair A Foundation Yourself?
If the damage to your foundation is minor and not a structural issue, then a DIY foundation repair may be adequate. However, if the damage is severe and threatens the structural integrity of your home, it’s not something you want to tackle on your own. Hiring experienced contractors with the skills, knowledge, and equipment required to undertake such intricate tasks can ensure that the job will be done correctly and efficiently, giving you the peace of mind that your property is secure. Ultimately, investing in professional foundation repair is a solid investment in your property’s long-term health and safety.
When Should You Walk Away From Foundation Issues When Buying A House?
The answer to this question is: it depends. If the issue is minor, it may be fixable and not necessarily a deal-breaker. However, if the foundation is severely damaged and needs repairs costing tens of thousands of dollars, it may be best to walk away from the house altogether.
Always have a professional foundation inspection before buying a house to identify potential issues. It’s also important to consider the cost of repairs so you can figure that into your offer. In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate with the seller to lower the price of the house to reflect the cost of repairs. However, having a professional estimate of the repairs before going into negotiations is essential.
Do Most Older Homes Have Foundation Problems?
Let’s say that an older home is more likely to have a foundation problem for the following reasons:
- Older homes, particularly those built before the 1940s, are more likely to experience foundation problems due to outdated construction techniques and materials.
- The geographical location of the home can also contribute to foundation problems. Houses built on expansive soils or in areas prone to earthquakes are more susceptible to foundation issues.
- Another factor to consider is the maintenance and upkeep of the home. Over time, neglecting routine maintenance tasks, such as checking for water leaks or addressing drainage issues, can lead to foundation problems.
Despite these issues, it’s also important to note that not all older homes have foundation problems. Many older homes have stood the test of time and remain structurally sound.
How Do I Know If My House Is Structurally Sound?
You can use a few key indicators to evaluate your home’s structural integrity before any significant problems arise.
- Take a walk around your property and inspect the outside of your house for any visible cracks or damage to the foundation, walls, or roof. Any noticeable cracks should be evaluated by a professional immediately.
- Look for any signs of water damage, such as mold, mildew, or warping, which could weaken the structure of your home over time. Check for any spots on the ceiling or drywall that are discolored or damp, as this could indicate a leaky roof or plumbing issue.
- Another important factor to consider is the age of your home. Older homes were often built with less durable materials than what’s used today and may not have the same level of support typically found in contemporary homes. If your house is older, it may be wise to have a professional assess its foundation, roofing, and other structural elements.
- Finally, listen to your gut. If something feels off or doesn’t seem right, it’s worth following up on. Trust your instincts, and don’t hesitate to consult an expert if you have any concerns about your home’s structural integrity.
Taking the time to evaluate your home’s structural soundness can save you a lot of money in the long run. By being proactive and regularly inspecting your property, you can maintain a safe and secure home for you and your loved ones.
If you suspect your home might need foundation repair, contact Foundation Professionals of Florida today to schedule a free foundation inspection. Our service area includes Jacksonville, FL, and the surrounding areas.
