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Foundation Repair

Foundation Repair in Birmingham

Repairing Foundations Throughout Alabama

The stability of your home or commercial building hinges significantly on the integrity of its foundation. Over time, numerous factors, such as subpar soil conditions, water damage, and natural wear and tear, can contribute to foundation problems. To tackle these challenges head-on, we at Ox Foundation Solutions offer dependable and professional foundation repair services in Birmingham and throughout Alabama. Rest assured that our team is equipped to address and resolve these issues with precision and care.

To schedule an estimate, call (205) 839-7950 today

Common Foundation Issues in Birmingham

Your home's foundation isn't just another part of the building— it's the bedrock upon which your entire home stands. Yet, it is more delicate than you might think, and numerous factors can put its stability at risk. 

Transpiration

Transpiration is a process in which water is drawn up from the soil by the roots of a plant, moves up through the plant's system, and then is evaporated into the atmosphere from the plant's leaves. This process can influence the moisture levels within the soil surrounding a home's foundation. 

In times of high transpiration, such as during a hot, dry summer, the soil can become excessively dry and contract. This soil contraction can lead to movement in the foundation, potentially resulting in damage.

Plumbing Leaks

Plumbing leaks are another common cause of foundation issues. Leaks can occur in water lines, drain lines, or sprinkler systems, and when they do, they release water into the soil around your home's foundation. This excess water can oversaturate the soil, causing it to expand and exert pressure against foundation walls. Over time, this pressure can lead to cracks and other forms of damage in the foundation. 

If a leak goes undetected for an extended period, it can create a soggy, unstable base that causes the foundation to shift or even sink— a condition known as settlement. Regular plumbing inspections and prompt repairs are critical to prevent these types of foundation problems.

Drainage

Improper drainage is yet another prevalent issue that can wreak havoc on your home's foundation. When rainwater or runoff from sprinklers is not adequately directed away from the house, it can accumulate around your foundation, causing the soil to become oversaturated. Similar to plumbing leaks, this saturation leads to soil expansion and increased pressure against the foundation walls. This pressure can cause the foundation to crack or buckle over time. The pooled water can seep through any existing cracks in the foundation, leading to moisture problems in the basement or crawl space, such as mold and mildew growth. 

To prevent these issues, it's essential to maintain good drainage practices, like ensuring gutters are clean, downspouts direct water away from the foundation, and the ground around your home slopes away from the foundation.

Improper Site Preparation

During the construction of a home, the site must be correctly prepared to ensure the soil is adequately compacted and graded. If the soil is loosely packed or contains organic matter, it can decompress over time, leading to an uneven or unstable base for the foundation. 

Similarly, if the site is not appropriately graded, water may not properly drain away from the foundation, leading to similar issues as mentioned above with oversaturation and soil expansion. 

Failure of Original Waterproofing

The initial waterproofing applied to your home's foundation during construction serves as an essential barrier, protecting your foundation from water damage. Over time, this waterproofing system can deteriorate due to factors such as weathering, ground movement, or general wear and tear. Once the waterproofing fails, water can seep into the foundation walls, which can lead to a host of problems. This water intrusion can oversaturate the soil surrounding your foundation, causing it to expand and exert pressure against the foundation walls, similar to the issues caused by plumbing leaks and improper drainage. This pressure can result in the formation of cracks, through which even more water can infiltrate, exacerbating the problem. 

Water seeping into your basement or crawl space can create damp conditions, promoting the growth of mold and mildew, which can further degrade the structural integrity of your foundation and the health of your indoor environment. 

Weather Extremes

Tornadoes

In Alabama, the risk of tornadoes is a significant factor that can cause damage to foundations. The swift and destructive force of a tornado can lead to substantial harm to the foundation of your home. 

One way tornadoes impact foundations is by propelling debris that collides with them, resulting in fractures, dents, and sometimes even complete failure.

The forceful winds and intense shaking from a tornado have the potential to shift or cause uneven settling in a building's foundation. These shifts can lead to cracking and destabilization of the structure. Tornadoes are also capable of displacing significant amounts of soil, which can cause erosion beneath the foundation. This weakening of the supporting system can potentially lead to sinking or unevenness in the foundation.

Tornadoes can also damage the building envelope, creating opportunities for water to seep into the foundation. This infiltration can result in challenges associated with moisture, such as mold growth, deterioration of building materials, and further weakening of the foundation.

Drought

Extended periods of drought can have a significant impact on the foundation of a building. The dry conditions cause the ground to shrink, leading to foundation settlement and various structural damages. As a result, you may start noticing cracks appearing in your walls, floors, or ceilings as the building adjusts to its shifting base. Unevenly sloping floors, a leaning or tilting chimney, and doors and windows that stick are all common signs of foundation problems. 

Additionally, visible gaps between walls and ceilings or around windows and exterior doors indicate that parts of the house are pulling away from each other. If you find water in your basement or crawl space, it could be a further indication of foundation compromise due to drought conditions.

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Signs of Foundation Issues

Being able to identify the indicators of potential foundation issues is crucial. Early detection not only leads to more straightforward and more cost-effective repairs but also prevents these issues from escalating into crises that could harm the integrity of the building. Stay vigilant, as swift action can save you from future headaches.

Some common symptoms to watch out for include:

  • Cracked or bowing walls: If you notice cracks on your walls, especially those that are horizontal or stair-step in nature, it could be a sign of underlying foundation issues. Similarly, walls that are bowing or bulging may indicate a problem with the foundation.
  • Uneven or sloping floors: If you observe that your floors are no longer level or are sloping, it could be a result of foundation settling or shifting.
  • Doors and windows that are difficult to open or close correctly: Difficulty in opening or closing doors and windows could be an indication that your foundation is shifting. 
  • Cracks in the foundation itself: Visible cracks in the foundation are a clear indication of underlying issues. These cracks could range from small hairline cracks to larger, more noticeable ones.
  • Water damage and soil shifting: Unexplained water damage or soil moving around the foundation could be a cause for concern.
  • Gaps around window frames or exterior doors: Expansion or contraction of the foundation can lead to the formation of gaps around windows and doors.
  • Chimney leaning or pulling away from the house: If you notice that your chimney is tilting or separating from your home, it could be a result of a shifting foundation.

How Ox Foundation Solutions Can Help Resolve Your Foundation Issues

At Ox Foundation Solutions, we are committed to restoring the safety and stability of your home. We understand the critical importance of a solid foundation, and we strive to provide dependable solutions to your foundation issues.

Our team begins by thoroughly inspecting your property to identify the root cause of any foundation problems. This allows us to tailor a comprehensive solution that best suits your specific needs.

We specialize in a range of foundation repair services, including foundation leveling, wall straightening, crack repair, and waterproofing. We utilize the latest technology and proven methods to ensure efficient and long-lasting results.

Not only do we provide immediate solutions, but we also offer advice on preventive measures to protect your foundation from future problems. This includes appropriate drainage systems, soil stabilization techniques, and regular maintenance tips.

At Ox Foundation Solutions, your safety is our priority. If you've noticed any signs of foundation problems, don't hesitate to contact us online or call (205) 839-7950 to schedule an estimate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are your tips for maintaining my foundation?

A: The soil underneath your foundation must have just the right amount of moisture. During the rainy season, ensure your drainage system is functioning correctly and that there are no gutter clogs. Excessive water can soften the soil, leading to foundation movement and damage. Conversely, in summer, the soil should be adequately hydrated using soaker hoses placed more than a foot away from the slab. Watering for around 15 minutes each morning and afternoon should suffice.

Q: What are the signs of foundation damage?

A: Signs of foundation damage can readily be spotted. Inside the house, look for cracks in the sheetrock around window frames and doors. Difficulty in opening and closing windows and doors, gaps where brick walls meet, and improperly hanging cabinets also indicate potential foundation damage.

Q: How much does foundation repair cost?

A: Foundation repair costs vary based on the project's scope and size and the age of the house being repaired. It can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands. We provide accurate and upfront estimates, considering the nuances of each job.

Q: What happens to my landscaping when you do foundation repair?

A: Our foundation repair methods minimize damage to your landscaping. Some plants may need to be moved, and while we strive to preserve them, we're not responsible for their survival. If you highly value your landscaping, consider employing a professional landscaper to remove plants before we begin work.

Q: Why should I choose Ox Foundation Solutions?

A: Ox Foundation Solutions offers a transferable Lifetime of the Structure Warranty, backed by necessary licenses and insurance. In Alabama, offering such a warranty requires a builder's license and endorsement from the Alabama Home Builders Association. Unlike most competitors, we meet these standards. All our work is done in-house — we don't use subcontractors. As a non-franchise, we give your property the attention it deserves.

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What Clients Think About Us

    "All above and beyond. Appreciate your work ethic."

    Thank you Jackson for being so thorough and detailed with my yearly service and leveling out one of the units and the extra detail to replacing/cleaning the drain lines.

    - CD Jr.
    "Ox Foundation did a great job!"

    A sweet lady at Ox even called me every morning to tell me the crew on the way and when to expect them, that was really nice.

    - George F.
    "Thank you Ox Foundations!!!!"

    This was the best decision we could have made. We got the house, that we loved, and Ox took us through each phase of the repair.

    - Al C.
    "I would highly recommend them!"

    I am very pleased with the work that all of the Ox Foundation Crews did.

    - Matt C.
    "Ox did a great job for us!"

    Choosing the right company to do our work was a tedious process, but we could not be happier with our choice.

    - Jim B.
    "Thank you, Jackson and Ox Foundation!"

    Ox Foundations strives for excellence, and it is shown in their work and employees!

    - Shannon N.
    "I highly recommend OX!"

    They were courteous and professional and their work was excellent.

    - Alan T.
    "Highly recommend using Ox for any crawl space issues you might have."

    He explained how the maintenance program would work and got us taken care of quickly.

    - Evan M.

The Ox Foundation Solutions Difference

We know there are a lot of companies claiming to be foundation and waterproofing specialists, but we're confident we offer superior service with work you can trust. We work with our clients to help you get the repairs you need to feel safe and healthy in your home.

  • Free Estimates
    Are you unsure if you need foundation work or just need to find out how much it will cost? We offer free, in-person, no-obligation estimates for any of our foundation, waterproofing, sump pump, or other services. Call us now to book an appointment.
  • Financing Available
    Most people have other things they want and need to spend their money on besides foundation work, waterproofing, and crawl spaces, but putting this off can jeopardize the safety of your home. We've partnered with a finance company to offer low-interest finance options.
  • Full Transferable Warranty
    We stand behind the work we do. That is why we offer full, life-of-the-structure warranties that are transferable should you sell your home. We've been in business for several decades so we're not a fly-by-night company. We stand behind our work and will be there should you ever need us again.

Contact Us Today For Your Free Estimate!

AFTERHOURS & WEEKENDS: WE WILL REACH OUT TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT ASAP DURING OUR REGULAR HOURS (M-F: 7AM - 5PM, Sat: 7AM - 12PM)
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