11 Best Foundation Companies in North Chicago, IL

On average, North Chicago homeowners spend around $2,476 on foundation repair. The cost of foundation repair is based on a number of factors. Things like the type of repair needed, the size of your home, and the extent of the damage will all help determine the cost. The best way to find out how much a job could cost is to reach out to a local foundation repair company 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 exactly as they sound: your foundation contractor will perform an inspection and complete any repairs necessary to remedy cracks or leaks. Costs will depend 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 amount you can expect to spend depends on how many piers are used. The price of stabilization varies similarly. This process reinforces bowing walls with steel or carbon fiber strips. The total cost will depend on the material and how many strips are used.

Lastly, waterproofing is an overarching term for a category of repairs intended to prevent water from getting into your foundation or basement. This can involve interior waterproofing, exterior waterproofing, or both, and costs can vary greatly. We recommend contacting a waterproofing specialist if you're planning to waterproof your foundation.

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 you have concerns about an existing house, a few hundred dollars will cover an inspection and report by a structural engineer. The engineer can alert you to any issues that could use some attention, and advise you on avoiding future problems.

It's also important that the moisture around your foundation is at an appropriate level. Don't let the soil around your North Chicago home get too dry or too wet; at different times, you might find yourself having to reroute your gutters or water your foundation. Also, be on the lookout for leaky gutters or pipes and repair them quickly.

Permits are needed for most foundation repairs, but obtaining one isn't your responsibility. Your foundation repair professional should get all the permits and other documents required in North Chicago, and should be able to explain the process and/or provide the documents before starting work.

It's a good idea to ask your foundation repair technician about this before committing to any project. Most of the time, yes, you should be able to remain at home while foundation work is being done.

You may be able to handle small hairline cracks on your own, but in most cases, you should at least consult a professional before starting any kind of foundation work. While you may balk at the idea of paying someone for a task you feel like you can handle yourself, mistakes made during foundation repair can cost you much more in the future.