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How Long Does Foundation Repair Last?

5/17/2022

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​At some point in every home's life, foundation repair becomes a necessary evil. No one ever wants to deal with it, but you have to make sure you do it right when the time comes.
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So how long does foundation repair last? And what causes it to fail prematurely? In this article, we'll explore those questions and more.

The Lifetime of Push Piers 

Push piers are a type of foundation repair installed by pushing them into the ground. They are made of steel and adjustable, making them a popular choice for repairing foundations.

The average lifespan of a steel push pier is around 80 years. But many factors can affect that timeline, both positively and negatively.

For example, if a pier is installed correctly and made of high-quality materials, it could even last well over 150 years. On the other hand, if a pier is installed poorly or made of lower quality materials, its lifespan could be as short as 20 years.
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They can bear a lot of weight(up to 68k pounds), but they are not indestructible. The main thing that will cause them to fail is corrosion.

The Lifetime of Helical Piers 

Helical piers are a type of foundation repair installed by screwing them into the ground. They are also made of steel and adjustable, making them another popular choice for repairing foundations.

The average lifespan of a steel piers are also around 120 years. But, as with push piers, many factors can affect that timeline.
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The max capacity for helical piers is 74 k pounds.

The Lifetime of Polyurethane Foam

​Polyurethane foam is a type of foundation repair installed by injecting it into the ground. It expands and hardens, which makes it ideal for repairing foundations.
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However, Polyurethane void fill following a lift is only utilized on areas of the property that require one. The average lifespan of polyurethane foam is indefinite. But it may need refill or retreatment every 10 to 20 years.

4 Things That Can Go Wrong With…

Pier and Beam Foundation 

Here are four things that can go wrong with a pier and beam foundation:
  • The piers settle unevenly - This can happen if the piers are not installed correctly or if the soil around them settles unevenly.
  • Shifting Soil - On average, pier and beam foundations settle about 1/16 of an inch per year. However, this can vary depending on the soil type around the foundation.
  • Moisture damage - Wicking from the ground can cause the wood to rot, which will weaken the pier and beam foundation.
  • Structural Fatigue - Over time, the weight of the house can cause the steel or concrete piers to sink, which will lead to cracks in the foundation.

Poured Slab Foundation 

Here are four things that can go wrong with a poured slab foundation:
  • Fractures and Cracks: Poured slab foundations are susceptible to cracks caused by everything from Settlement to poor drainage.
  • Water Damage: If water leaks into the cracks in a poured slab foundation, it can cause mold and mildew to grow, which will weaken the foundation.
  • Age: Over time, poured slab foundations can settle and shift, which will cause cracks and fractures.
  • ​​Shifting Soil: If the soil around a poured slab foundation shifts, it can cause the foundation to crack or settle.

The Consequences of Not Fixing a Cracked Foundation 

Foundation repairs may seem like an expense you can do without, but your home's structure will suffer when it comes to neglecting needed work.
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Here are some of the consequences of not fixing a cracked foundation:

Weakened Structural Integrity

Cracks in your foundation may seem like a minor problem, but they can lead to severe consequences. Cracks can allow moisture to seep into your home, damaging floors, walls, and ceilings.
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In addition, cracks can create opportunities for pests and insects to enter your home, which can spread disease and cause allergies. In extreme cases, cracks can cause the foundation to collapse, putting your family at risk of injury or even death.

Increased Risk of Water Damage 

Water damage is one of the most common and expensive problems associated with a cracked foundation.

Water can seep into cracks in your foundation and cause serious damage to your home. In addition, water can weaken the foundation and lead to further cracking.
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In extreme cases, water can cause the foundation to collapse, putting your family at risk of injury or even death.

Decreased Property Value 

Who wants to buy a home with a cracked foundation? Not many people.

A cracked foundation can decrease the value of your home by 10-15%. In addition, it can make it difficult to sell your home.
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If you think of selling your home, it is important to have the foundation repaired before putting it on the market.

Damage to Floor and Overall interior of the House 

A cracked foundation can damage the floors and interior of your home. Not only can water seep into cracks and cause damage, but insects and animals can enter your home through the cracks.

Unexpected Plumbing and Electric Faults

Not only will floors and walls suffer from a cracked foundation, but your home's plumbing and electrical systems can also be affected.
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Most of the main lines are located in the foundation, so if there are cracks, they can cause foundation problems. Some of the problems you may experience include water leaks, mold growth, and foundation settling.

FAQs

Is foundation repair worth it?

Foundation repair is worth it if you are concerned about the safety of your home. A cracked foundation can cause the collapse of your home, which can put your family at risk of injury or even death.

When should homeowners walk away from foundation issues?

Homeowners should walk away from foundation issues when the cost of repairs is more than the value of their home. In addition, if the damage is severe, it may not be possible to repair the foundation. In this case, it is best to walk away from home and demolish it.

Can I repair my foundation by myself?

​It is not advisable to repair your foundation by yourself. Foundation repairs require special skills and knowledge. Most tools and equipment needed for foundation repairs are expensive and require training. In addition, foundation repairs can be dangerous. If you are not experienced, it is best to hire a foundation repair experts.

What is the average cost of foundation repair?

The average cost of foundation repair is around $2,012 and $7,074. 

Conclusion 

​On average, home's foundation repair lasts for around 80 years and considered permanent solutions. However, this can differ depending on the severity of the foundation damage and how well the repairs were done. If you keep up with regular maintenance and conduct timely repairs when necessary, your foundation should last for many years to come.

Author

​David is the lead content editor at RVA Paving Pros, a service for Richmond VA residents. In his spare time, David likes to travel, read about business and visit the finest italian restaurants in town!

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  • Home
  • Services
    • Parking Lot Paving
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    • Knowledge Center
    • Blog
  • Quote Request Form