11 Best Foundation Companies in Capital, IL

On average, Capital homeowners spend roughly $3,061 on foundation repair. The cost of foundation repair will vary greatly depending on several factors. Things like the type of repair needed, the size of your home, and the extent of the damage will all play a part. The best way to find out how much a job could cost is to talk to a local foundation repair expert and schedule a free inspection and estimate.

The main types of foundation repair include crack repair, leak repair, underpinning, stabilization, and waterproofing.

Crack repair and leak repair are what they sound like: your foundation contractor will perform an inspection and complete any repairs necessary to remedy cracks or leaks. Costs will vary depending on the size and cause of the problem.

Underpinning, also called leveling or piering, is when a contractor levels your foundation by underpinning it with large concrete piers. The cost will depend on how many piers are required. The price of stabilization varies similarly. This process involves fixing bowing walls by reinforcing them with carbon fiber or steel strips. The cost will depend on the material chosen and how many strips are used.

Lastly, waterproofing is an overarching term for a number of jobs that help prevent water from getting into your foundation or basement. This can include exterior waterproofing, interior waterproofing, or both, and the price can vary greatly. We recommend contacting a waterproofing specialist if you think your foundation needs waterproofing.

If you're constructing a new home, make sure that a soil report is completed. A soil report will contain information about how well the soil on a given piece of land can support a foundation, and can provide you with a heads-up about any potential future issues. If your concerns are about an existing house, for a few hundred dollars, you can get an inspection and report by a structural engineer. The engineer can point you to any things that could use some attention, and advise you on how to avoid future problems.

You also want to make sure that the moisture around your foundation is appropriate. Don't let the soil around your Capital home get too dry or too wet; at different times, you might find yourself having to reroute your gutters or water your foundation. You should also stay vigilant for leaky gutters or pipes, so you can get them repaired promptly.

Your foundation repair expert should be the one to get the permits. You can request that the company provide a detailed explanation of the steps in its process and to see the paperwork and permits it has assembled to make sure everything is properly authorized per Capital regulations.

Sometimes, foundation repairs can be considered capital improvements if they meet the criteria of an improvement that adds to a home's overall market value, prolongs its life, or adapts it to new uses. Making capital improvements sometimes helps you qualify for tax breaks. (Contact your Illinois tax professional for the most accurate information.) Even without these tax breaks, foundation repairs will, in most cases, positively affect the value of your home.

Foundation repair, particularly extensive repairs like basement waterproofing, should last a long time. This is especially true if you go with a reputable company. By solving systemic issues with your foundation, or reinforcing critical areas, you lower the risk of future problems.