How long does it usually take to repair a foundation?

Home improvement and repairs can be a major undertaking. This is especially true when it comes to any work that involves your home’s foundation, as this part of your home impacts the structural integrity of the rest of the house. A full understanding of the foundation repair process and a timeline can help you plan your schedule.

How long does the average slab foundation repair take?

Here at Ecoscape Foundation & Home Services, our team typically completes slab foundation repair projects within one to three days. Keep reading to learn a bit more about the repair process and what’s involved in a typical residential slab foundation repair project.

What causes a residential foundation repair job to take longer?

The amount of time your specific foundation repair project will take will depend on a variety of factors unique to your home and the foundation issues that need to be addressed. Here are some of the key factors that determine the scope of the job:

The type of foundation repair method
The location that needs remediation
The number of piers required to stabilize the foundation
The amount of excavation needed

To get a better sense of how long your foundation repair project will take, you’ll want to get an estimate that provides you with the scope of work and better indicates what your foundation repair project will involve. At Ecoscape Foundation & Home Services, we’re pleased to offer free, no-obligation estimates to provide you with this information.

What do I need to do to prepare for foundation repair?

Definitely ask your project manager how to best prepare your home for the repair. He or she will be able to give you the best recommendations. Below are a few things you might expect:

Move furniture, wall decor, and plants (inside and out) – Depending on when and where the work is being done, you may need to move furniture, wall decor, and plants. Moving plants and furniture can be a hassle and take time, especially if they are large or heavy. This is something you’ll want to plan for ahead of time to avoid damage during the repair.
Clear a path for technicians – For work that is being done outside the home, it’s important to clear a path for the repair technicians. They’ll need a clear area for their equipment and space to move around.
Use plastic tarps to protect furniture – We’ve already mentioned moving furniture and wall decor for repairs inside the home. Plastic tarps are also a great tool for protecting furniture from airborne debris.
Keep pets and children away from the job site – Don’t forget about your pets. You’ll want to keep any pets away from the area where work is being done and, if possible, in another room.

What does the foundation repair process entail?

For the average slab foundation repair, you can expect the process to look something like this:

Excavation Phase – This phase involves digging holes in the area where the piers are going to be installed. To install piers inside flooring is removed to access the concrete slab underneath. Whether the repairs are on the interior or exterior of the home, this phase will be messy.
Installation Phase – The next phase is the installation. After the technicians excavate the holes, they place concrete piers under the slab. The piers are installed one at a time to disperse the weight of the slab among each of the new piers. To install the piers to the appropriate depth, technicians use a hydraulic ram. The hydraulic ram uses force to push the piers into place.
Leveling Phase – Technicians then use a hydraulic jack to lift or level the house over the new piers. If you’re in the home during the repair you’ll feel some bumps and jolts. That’s the sound of your house is being sorted into place.
Clean Up Phase – After the foundation is leveled, the crew should cover any holes. By the time the technicians leave your home should at least as neat as it was before the repair or better.

Each foundation repair situation is unique and different types of foundation repair options exist. Be sure to consult with an expert and ask lots of questions before you take on any repairs.

How do I get started on my foundation repair project?

Don’t feel pressured into signing a contract immediately. Foundation repairs are serious and should be treated with urgency, but that also requires taking the time to ensure you’re working with a company you can trust.

If you think your foundation needs some repairs, contact Ecoscape Foundation & Home Services to schedule a free in-home evaluation. Our detailed evaluations include foundation elevation readings, work order, and payment plan options.

Ecoscape Foundation provides foundation repair services and drainage services to homeowners in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.