Is foundation work on your house very expensive?

Answer 1

Not repairing a foundation can end up causing:

1. instability of the structure
2. weakening of house corners, causing one or more corners to 'sink'
3. drafts
4. loss of heating
5. openings for mice etc to enter and nest
6. openings for termites to get in and eat wood framing

The cost of repairs depends on what type of problem you have.

For example, if you just have a small loose stone or spaces between cinder blocks, you could do a DIY approach. Fill it with weatherization foam, let it dry, shave off excess, and paint it to match the color of the foundation. Don't fill with paper; it will get wet and attract mold. You need a solid seal between surfaces.

Other problems warrant getting estimates from professionals. Such jobs might be:

1. Raising and stabilizing an area that is sinking
2. Repairing/replacing block or stone in an area bigger than 1 cinder block
3. Replacing crumbling stone or block, because once you start you'll probably find more that need replaced
4. Needing a trench dug around the outside to prevent basement leaks
5. If outside stairs, porch, patio or deck is near the area that needs fixed
6. Anything that requires cement or other mixture to hold surfaces together
7. etc. etc.

Expect the estimates to start in the low thousands and upward in cost.

(I helped my dad build our house and have done minor home repairs, but I'm not an expert in home improvement.)

Answer 2

Generally, repairs to foundations are technical and therefore expensive...it is all relevant.