11 Best Foundation Companies in Princeton, IL

On average, Princeton homeowners spend about $3,060 on foundation repair. The total cost of foundation repair depends 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 easiest way to determine how much a job is going to cost is to speak with a local foundation repair expert and schedule a free inspection and estimate.

The main types of foundation repair are 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 take necessary measures to remedy cracks or leaks. The price will vary based on the size and cause of the issue.

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 required. The price of stabilization is also variable. This process fixes bowing walls by reinforcing them with carbon fiber or steel strips, and the total cost will depend on the material chosen and how many strips are used.

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

When caring for your foundation, you should make sure it has the proper level of moisture. Avoid letting the soil around your Princeton house become too wet or too dry – make changes to your gutter system to route water away, or water your foundation if it starts to get too dry. You should also make sure that you promptly identify and repair any leaking pipes or gutters.

If you think there may be any problems with your foundation, you can reach out to a structural engineer for an evaluation. This will cost a few hundred dollars, but the engineer's consultation can net you a list of things to look out for as well as additional steps to further protect your foundation. Lastly, if you're building a new house, be sure that you have a soil report done. This can provide information about how well the soil on your property can support a foundation, and can highlight any potential future issues.

A permit is normally required for foundation repair, but obtaining one shouldn't be your responsibility. Your foundation repair provider should obtain the permit and all other documents required in Princeton, and should be able to provide the documents and/or explain the process if asked.

Small hairline cracks might seem easy to handle yourself, but in general, it's a good idea to consult a professional before you start any sort of foundation maintenance. While you may not want to pay someone for a task you feel like you can handle yourself, mistakes made during foundation repair can be even more costly down the line.

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