11 Best Foundation Companies in Houma, LA

On average, Houma homeowners spend roughly $2,525 on foundation repair. The cost of foundation repair is based on several factors. Things like the type of repair needed, the size of your home, and the extent of the damage will all factor in. The fastest way to determine how much a job is going to cost is to talk to 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 complete any repairs necessary 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 the process of leveling your foundation by underpinning it with large concrete piers. The amount you can expect to spend depends on how many piers are needed. The price of stabilization is also variable. This process involves fixing bowing walls by reinforcing them with steel or carbon fiber strips, and the total cost will depend on the material and how many strips are used.

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

When building a new house, make sure that a soil report is completed. A soil report will contain information regarding how well your soil can support a foundation, and can provide you with a heads-up about potential future issues. If your concerns are about an existing home, a few hundred dollars will cover an inspection and report by a structural engineer. The engineer can alert you to any things that need attention, and give you advice on how to avoid future problems.

Also ensure that the moisture around your foundation is at an appropriate level, particularly when the weather gets hot. As Houma sees more rain than many other places, keep an eye on your gutters and landscaping to make sure too much water isn't getting into your soil or foundation. Also, be on the lookout for leaky gutters or pipes, so you can get them repaired quickly.

Your foundation repair professional should be the one obtaining the permits. You can request that the company provide a detailed explanation of its process and to see the permits and paperwork it has assembled to confirm everything is properly authorized per Houma regulations.

Small hairline cracks might seem easy to take care of on your own, but in general, you should consult a professional before you begin any kind of foundation maintenance. Although you may not want to pay someone for work you feel like you can handle yourself, foundation repair mistakes can cost you much more down the line.

Generally, foundation repairs will positively affect your home's value. In some cases, you may be able to consider foundation repair a capital improvement, which can sometimes allow you to qualify for tax breaks. Generally, a capital improvement is defined as one that will add to your house's overall market value, prolong its life, or adapt it to new uses. Talk to your Louisiana tax professional for the most accurate information.