Replacing a home’s foundation is one of the most significant–and often most intimidating–renovation projects a homeowner can face. Safety, stability, and the long-term usability of your house are all important factors. If you have been told that you need to replace the entire foundation of your home, you are probably wondering what this is going to cost.
In this guide, we examine foundation replacement, how it is priced, and what factors can influence the cost. This breakdown can help you determine the affordable foundation replacement option for your home, whether it’s a century-old Chicago bungalow or one in a suburb.
Why Foundation Replacement is Necessary
A foundation replacement is seldom the first step. In many cases, cracks or moisture problems, such as settling and cracks in the foundation, can be repaired. In cases where structural integrity is seriously compromised (due to soil movements, water erosion, or poor initial construction), replacement may be necessary.
Here are some warning signs that may signal a replacement.
- Basement walls have large horizontal cracks
- Walls bowing outward or leaning toward the foundation
- Water infiltration persists after waterproofing
- Uneven floors all over the home
- Door and window sticking or misalignment
If you are experiencing more than one symptom, it’s best to consult a professional for an inspection and estimate.
What Is Included In Foundation Replacements
A foundation replacement involves more than pouring fresh concrete. It’s typically a multiphase project with many phases.
- Excavation at the perimeter of your home
- Temporary support to hold up the house during removal
- Demolition – removal of the existing foundation
- Soil grading & compaction
- Pouring and curing the new foundation
- Waterproofing installation
- Backfilling restoration
Each of these stages involves labor and materials. Permits are also required.
How to Determine the Final Price?
A number of variables will impact the cost of your new foundation.
1. Foundation Type
A simple slab is less expensive than a foundation that requires excavation and more materials. Crawlspaces generally fall somewhere between.
2. Access
When you live in a tight space or have neighbors nearby, excavation is more expensive and difficult.
3. Permits and Engineering
Your local building codes may also require a design engineer. These fees can add anywhere between $2,000 and $5,000.
4. Waterproofing & Drainage
Installing proper drainage, such as a French Drain or a Sump Pump, can reduce future repair costs. Waterproofing costs $5,000 to $10,000 but is necessary in places with high groundwater and poor soil drainage.
5. Finishing Touches
Plan for grading after construction. You may also need to repour the driveway, rebuild your porch, or do landscaping.
Can you save money by replacing your foundation?
But it doesn’t necessarily have to cost a lot. There are several ways to make this process easier:
- Get multiple quotes from licensed contractors
- Request a thorough explanation of the task so that you can make a fair comparison.
- If your home is able to accommodate it, ask about phased development.
- You should look for contractors who provide payment plans, financing, or both.
- Focus on the long-term value instead of upfront costs.
Searching for affordable services to replace foundations can help you get the most competitive price without compromising quality.
Conclusion
While replacing your foundation is an expensive undertaking, you may need to do it to protect your house and your family. Do not let sticker horror stop you from addressing structural issues. For a fair fee, you can repair a home’s foundation with the assistance of a knowledgeable crew, meticulous planning, and professional advice.
If you don’t know where to start, it is worth getting an expert evaluation to learn more about your options. Check out this Old House’s foundation repair advice for additional perspectives on home moisture prevention, waterproofing strategies, and renovation best practices.