When it comes to foundation cracks repair and foundation replacement in Los Angeles, it’s important to separate fact from fiction! Let’s start!
(1) Foundation problems are not common in Los Angeles
Oh no, this is definitely a myth that we need to bust right now! Homes in Los Angeles typically have foundations that are built on soft clay soil that expands during our rainy season and contracts during our dry season. This back-and-forth movement often causes concrete foundations to shift and crack. Moreover, the strong seismic activity and violent shaking that is so common to Southern California puts incredible stress on already-brittle foundations, easily cracking them in multiple places. Finally, other local geographical natural forces such as water runoff also damages local foundations. If your home was subjected to earthquakes and water runoff, you may need basement waterproofing, leaky basement repair, basement wall sealing, or basement wall cracks repair!
(2) My home was built in the last decade, so my foundation is better than older ones
Yes, this is a true fact! Foundation damage is most common in older homes. For example, foundations built earlier than the 1950s are very susceptible to cracking and damage, as they were typically made out of unreinforced concrete or bricks / river rocks, held together with simple mortar. Moreover, foundations built during the building booms of the 1950s and 60s are also very fragile, as they were also made from unreinforced concrete slabs as thin as two inches that were poured over unstable top soil that was not properly compacted. As a result, many old foundations are often found damaged today. If you live in an older home, you must inspect the condition of your foundation regularly!
(3) Modern methods for foundation cracks repair are expensive
No, this one is a myth! In fact, foundation repair costs can be very reasonable, if you catch them early, and the damage is not too extreme. Basic crack repair methods typically involve filling the cracks with epoxy that solidifies and connects the concrete back together again. In some cases, metal straps are also used to bind the separated concrete portions to one another. But it is true that if the cracking in a foundation is very extensive, a portion (or all) of the foundation may need to be replaced. One thing is certain: early repairs of minor damage are always, always going to be quicker and cheaper than waiting for the damage to become more severe. This is one area where early warning and maintenance is important. Don’t delay, have your foundation inspected today! This is a safety matter, as a strong earthquake can cause a damaged foundation to fall apart, and for the home above to slide completely off!
(4) Replacing a home’s foundation is time-consuming, and will require everyone to move out of the house
No, this is another myth! Look, typically a full foundation is replaced only when the foundation is on its “last legs” and when undertaking a repair is no longer an option. This doesn’t happen very often, for example, only when landslides, flooding, or a strong earthquake caused a sudden erosion of soil under the foundation. But, when replacing a foundation is warranted, the experts at Weinstein Construction can replace a foundation without lifting the house, and even while folks continue to live inside of the home!
(5) Foundation repair is expensive
Well, this is one you will have to decide for yourself! What do you think is more expensive, repairing a foundation or replacing it completely? Many foundations can be repaired quite easily at a cost of 1% – 3% of the value of the home. For example, foundation cracks up to a ¼ inch wide can be filled with epoxy that solidifies and reconnects the concrete, and structural strength can be increased by anchoring in-place reinforced steel rods. Those homeowners who catch damage early may just need to repair a few cracks and improve the drainage around their house to funnel rainwater away from their property! In comparison, if a foundation needs to be completely replaced, the cost can be 5% – 10% of the value of the home. Why take a chance? Don’t delay, have your foundation inspected today!
(6) There are warning signs that can let me know if I need to have a foundation specialist go under my home to inspect the foundation
Yes, this one is true. While you won’t always know if your foundation is damaged just from walking around your home, there are some warning signs that, if you see them, should alarm you enough to call a foundation professional to come have a look. These warning signs include sloping, sagging, or cracking floors, gaps appearing between walls and floors, walls that begin to lean and bow, or sticking windows and doors. If you see any of these warning signs, give us a call immediately!
(7) Any contractor can repair or replace a foundation
Oh no, this one is definitely a myth that must be busted! Not every contractor is skilled enough to remove an old foundation and pour a new one! Unfortunately, some contractors hold themselves out as foundations experts even when they don’t have the right tools and experience to do this work. At the end of the day, foundation work must be done carefully, according to strict codes, and using correct, top-quality materials. This is not an easy process and if the job is not done right, the entire home can be seriously damaged. If you’re now asking, “are there foundation specialists near me” then the answer is yes! The professionals at Weinstein Construction are deeply experienced in foundation repair and replacement and are leaders in their field. We are all committed to helping you with all your foundation work!
Weinstein Construction’s foundation repair specialists have the right foundation solution at an affordable price! call Weinstein Construction today at (800) 862-6582 for a free, no obligation inspection and review of your home’s foundation needs! We are also experts at basement waterproofing, leaky basement repair, basement wall sealing, French drain installation, and waterproofing a basement wall!
