Foundation settlement happens when part of a home sinks or shifts due to weak or shifting soil. This can cause serious problems like cracked walls, sloping floors, and doors or windows that no longer work properly. This often requires expert repair to stop further damage and protect the structure.
Signs Your Home Has Foundation Settlement
Foundation issues often show up in common areas. These problems may start small but tend to get worse over time. Here are a few things you may notice:
- Doors that stick or won’t close properly
- Windows that don’t open like they used to
- Cracks in drywall, especially around windows or ceilings
- Floors that feel sloped or uneven in some rooms
These signs usually mean your foundation is moving or sinking. It’s important not to ignore them.
Pro Tip: If one part of your house feels off, like a bedroom floor that dips, compare it to other rooms. Uneven changes from one area to another are a strong clue.
How Do We Fix Foundation Settlement?
To fix the problem, we use steel piers or push piers. These are long, strong tubes of steel that go deep underground. Here’s how it works:
- Inspect the home: We check for all signs of settlement and plan the repair.
- Dig small holes near the foundation: This gives us access to the footing.
- Drive the steel piers down to bedrock: We keep pushing until we hit solid ground.
- Lift or stabilize the foundation: We use hydraulic jacks to lift the house or hold it steady.
- Seal the area: We backfill and clean up the work site.
Once complete, your home’s foundation will be supported by bedrock, not soft soil.
Need expert help with foundation settlement? Contact Olson for a free consultation. We’ll inspect your home, explain the issue clearly, and give you a written repair plan.
How Much Does Foundation Settlement Repair Cost?
The cost depends on how many piers your home needs and how deep we have to drive them. On average, homeowners spend between $3,500 and $12,000.
Some things that affect the cost include:
- Size of the home
- Amount of damage
- Soil condition
- Type of repair method
It’s always best to get a full inspection so we can give you an exact price.
Key Takeaway: Delaying repairs can lead to higher costs in the future. Fixing the issue early helps avoid structural damage and more expensive problems.
Why Foundation Settlement Should Be Fixed Right Away
Waiting to address the issue can lead to more than just cracks and sticky doors. Over time, foundation problems can affect plumbing lines, electrical systems, and the value of your home. The sooner we act, the better the results and the lower the cost.
Also, homes with foundation problems are harder to sell. Fixing the foundation now makes your home safer and more marketable in the future.
In Summary
Foundation settlement is a serious issue, but it can be fixed with the right tools and experience. At Olson, we use proven methods like steel piers to stop the problem and protect your home. If you’re seeing cracks, sagging floors, or windows that don’t close right, let’s take a look.
Contact us today for a free inspection and written repair plan.
