Foundation repair questions, answered plainly
The questions St. Louis homeowners ask us most, from licensing and permits to insurance and how long a repair takes.
How do I know if my foundation actually needs repair?
Look at how the cracks are shaped and whether they change. Thin, even cracks in poured walls are usually shrinkage. Stair-step cracks in masonry, cracks wider at one end, walls leaning in, sticking doors and sloping floors are reasons to book an inspection.
What does the free inspection include?
Floor levels measured with a laser, every visible crack looked at, basement walls checked for lean, the crawl space, gutters, downspouts, grade and sump pump. You get a written plan and the price of anything recommended.
Are you licensed?
Missouri does not license foundation repair at the state level. We are registered and insured, and structural work is done under permits from the city or county office that covers your address.
Who pulls the permit?
We do. The City of St. Louis, St. Louis County and many individual towns run separate permit offices. We check your address and file with the right one.
How long does a typical repair take?
Crack injection is often a few hours. Pier jobs usually take one to three working days once the permit is issued. Interior drain systems run two to four days for most basements.
Will you lift my house back to level?
Where it is safe. Houses that have sat out of level for years have adjusted, and lifting too far can crack plaster and brick. We tell you the target before work starts.
Why does St. Louis have so many foundation problems?
Much of the area sits on clay that swells when wet and shrinks when dry. Footings in that clay move with it, and wet springs followed by dry summers keep the cycle going.
Can I stay in the house during the work?
Almost always. Outside pier work is mostly noise and digging. Interior drain work is dusty, and we seal off the work area.
Does homeowners insurance pay for foundation repair?
Usually not for settlement or soil movement. Some policies pay when damage comes from a sudden covered event. Our insurance guide covers the details.
Do you also handle wet basements?
Yes. Waterproofing, leak repair, sump pumps and crawl space moisture are part of what we do, and one inspection covers both the structural and the water side.
Is there a warranty?
Ask about the warranty terms for the specific repair when you receive the written price. Get them in writing and ask whether they transfer if you sell.
Do you work in St. Charles County?
Yes, including St. Charles, St. Peters and O'Fallon, plus nearby Jefferson County towns such as Arnold.
Not answered here? Call (314) 932-9816 or read the guides.
