What to Expect During Foundation Repair
If you’ve been told your home needs foundation repair, it’s normal to feel uncertain about what the process involves. Foundation work sounds intimidating, but knowing the steps ahead of time can make the experience less stressful. While every project is unique, most foundation repairs follow a similar sequence.
Here’s what you can expect during the foundation repair process.
Step 1: Initial Inspection
The first step in foundation repair is a professional evaluation.
- An independent structural engineer examines your home and documents the damage.
- You’ll receive a detailed report with recommended solutions, such as piers, underpinning, wall anchors, grading adjustments, or drainage fixes.
- Next, you’ll meet with a foundation repair company. Using the engineer’s report, they’ll provide a repair estimate. Most reputable companies also include a follow-up inspection by the engineer after work is complete to verify the effectiveness of the repair.
This stage is critical: it ensures the repair plan is based on unbiased expert recommendations.
Step 2: Preparation
Before work begins, the repair crew prepares your property.
- Contractors mark work areas inside and outside your home.
- Landscaping, decks, or walkways near the foundation may need to be moved or temporarily removed.
- Utility lines (water, gas, electric) are flagged to ensure safe excavation.
While this step may cause some disruption, careful preparation helps prevent damage to your property.
Step 3: Excavation
In many cases, the soil around the foundation must be removed to access problem areas.
- Workers dig trenches along the foundation walls.
- Depending on the scope, heavy equipment may be used in your yard.
Excavation can look dramatic, but it’s a standard part of most foundation repair jobs.
Step 4: Repair Work
The specific repairs depend on your home’s issues. Common solutions include:
- Installing piers or underpinning – Steel supports are driven deep into stable soil or bedrock to lift and stabilize the home.
- Wall anchors, soldier beams, or braces – Installed when basement or crawl space walls are bowing or leaning.
- Drainage improvements – French drains, sump pumps, or grading adjustments are added to prevent future water damage.
Each solution is designed to restore stability and prevent the problem from recurring.
Step 5: Stabilization and Lifting
In some cases, hydraulic jacks are used to lift the foundation back into place.
- Lifting is done slowly and carefully to avoid further damage.
- Minor cosmetic cracking in drywall or trim may occur, but this is normal and can be repaired afterward.
The goal isn’t just to lift but to stabilize your home for the long term.
Step 6: Backfilling and Cleanup
Once repairs are complete, crews restore the property.
- Excavated soil is backfilled and compacted.
- Landscaping may be restored, though grass or shrubs may need time to regrow.
- The worksite is cleaned, leaving the property safe and stable.
Step 7: Final Inspection and Warranty
After the work is complete:
- A structural engineer reinspects the foundation to confirm the repair was successful.
- Many foundation repair companies provide a warranty, sometimes even a lifetime transferable warranty that can be passed to future homeowners.
This step provides peace of mind that your investment is protected.
Timeline and Cost
- Timeline – Foundation repairs can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks depending on severity and complexity.
- Cost – Smaller repairs may cost only a few thousand dollars, while major underpinning or drainage systems can run into the tens of thousands.
Final Thoughts
Foundation repair is a major project, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a clear inspection, a detailed repair plan, and professional contractors, you’ll know exactly what to expect at each stage.
If you’re noticing cracks, bowing walls, or uneven floors, don’t wait until the damage worsens. Contact Elite Foundation Services today to schedule an inspection and learn about repair options to protect your home.
