Question 1

How do I know if my foundation needs repair?

Accepted Answer

Look for cracks wider than 1/4 inch in walls or floors, doors and windows that stick or won't close properly, uneven or sloping floors, gaps between walls and ceiling or floor, and bowing basement walls. Any of these can indicate foundation movement. However, not every crack is a crisis. Some are cosmetic. A free professional inspection is the best way to know for sure.

Question 2

What causes foundation problems in Colorado?

Accepted Answer

Colorado's expansive clay soil is the #1 culprit. When this soil absorbs water, it swells; when it dries, it shrinks. This constant expansion and contraction puts tremendous pressure on foundations. Poor compaction during original construction, soil erosion from drainage problems, and freeze-thaw cycles also contribute significantly, especially in the Colorado Springs and Pueblo areas.

Question 3

Is a crack in my wall a sign of foundation failure?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Hairline cracks are common in new homes as concrete cures and the house settles. However, cracks wider than 1/4 inch, horizontal cracks in basement walls, stair-step cracks in brick or block, and cracks that are actively growing should be evaluated by a professional. We offer free inspections to determine if a crack is cosmetic or structural.

Question 4

How much does foundation repair cost?

Accepted Answer

Costs vary widely depending on the type and extent of repair needed. Simple epoxy crack repairs might cost a few hundred dollars. Helical pier installations typically range from $1,200-$3,500 per pier, with most homes requiring 4-12 piers. Wall anchor systems, drainage installations, and complete foundation replacements all have different pricing. We provide free, no-obligation estimates for every project.

Question 5

Does homeowner's insurance cover foundation repair?

Accepted Answer

Most standard homeowner's insurance policies do not cover foundation repair caused by normal settling, soil movement, or poor construction. However, if foundation damage results from a covered peril, like a burst pipe that floods your crawlspace, your policy may cover some or all of the repair. Chad's background as a former State Farm claims adjuster helps us guide you through this process.

Question 6

What is a helical pier and when is it used?

Accepted Answer

A helical pier is a steel shaft with helical (spiral) plates that is screwed into the ground until it reaches stable, load-bearing soil. It's used to stabilize and lift settling foundations. Helical piers are ideal when stable soil exists at moderate depths and are installed with minimal vibration and disturbance to your property. They're one of the most reliable foundation repair methods available.

Question 7

What is the difference between a push pier and a helical pier?

Accepted Answer

Push piers are steel tubes driven into the ground using the weight of the structure as resistance. They're best when load-bearing soil or bedrock is at greater depth. Helical piers are screwed into the ground and can support structures of varying weight. Your engineer and our team will determine which system is right for your specific soil conditions and foundation type.

Question 8

How long does foundation repair take?

Accepted Answer

Most residential foundation repairs are completed in 1-3 days, depending on the scope. A simple 4-pier installation might take 6-8 hours. More complex projects involving multiple piers, wall anchors, and drainage systems can take a week or more. We'll provide a detailed timeline during your assessment so you know exactly what to expect.

Question 9

Do I need to leave my home during repairs?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, no. Foundation repair work is done outside your home or in your basement/crawlspace. You can continue living in your home during the repairs. There will be noise from equipment, and our crews will need access around the perimeter of your home, but you do not need to relocate.

Question 10

What is crawlspace encapsulation and do I need it?

Accepted Answer

Crawlspace encapsulation involves sealing your crawlspace with a heavy-duty vapor barrier, installing a dehumidifier, and sometimes adding a drainage system. It prevents moisture from entering your crawlspace, which can cause mold, wood rot, pest infestations, and musty odors in your home. If your crawlspace has standing water, visible mold, or excessive humidity, encapsulation is strongly recommended.

Question 11

What causes bowing basement walls?

Accepted Answer

Bowing basement walls are caused by lateral pressure from expanding soil pushing against the wall. In Colorado, our clay soil swells significantly when wet, creating enormous pressure. Poor drainage that allows water to pool against foundation walls makes this worse. Wall anchors or helical tiebacks can stabilize and, over time, straighten bowing walls.

Question 12

Do you offer warranties on your work?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We stand behind every repair we complete. Warranty details vary by the type of repair and the products used. During your assessment, we'll explain exactly what warranty coverage applies to your specific repair plan. Our goal is to fix the problem right the first time so you never need to use the warranty.

Question 13

What is epoxy crack repair?

Accepted Answer

Epoxy crack repair involves injecting structural epoxy resin into foundation cracks to seal them and restore the structural integrity of the concrete. It's an effective solution for non-moving cracks in poured concrete foundations. For actively moving cracks or cracks caused by ongoing foundation settlement, we'll address the underlying cause before sealing the crack.

Question 14

Why does Colorado clay soil cause so many foundation problems?

Accepted Answer

Colorado sits on bentonite clay, one of the most expansive soil types in the world. This clay can swell up to 15 times its dry volume when saturated. The constant wet/dry cycles in Colorado, from rain, snowmelt, irrigation, and seasonal changes, create ongoing expansion and contraction that puts tremendous stress on foundations. This is why foundation issues are so common in the Pikes Peak region.

Question 15

What is the appointment process like?

Accepted Answer

Call, text, or submit an online form. We'll confirm within 24 hours. During your appointment, our inspector uses moisture meters, levels, and measurement tools to document your foundation's condition. We walk every area of concern with you, explain what we're seeing in plain English, and present repair options. There is zero pressure to make a decision on the spot.

Foundation Repair FAQs: Honest Answers to Common Questions

Don't Wait Until Small Cracks Become Major Structural Repairs