Issues with a home’s foundation may stem from various sources. These could include issues from the initial construction of the home, the soil beneath, other natural elements like moisture and weather, or simply the age of the foundation. No matter the cause of the problem, a sagging, shifting, or decaying foundation causes serious health and safety issues for anyone in the home.
Below are the critical signs to watch for when it comes to foundation problems. These are important to note as the worse the problems get, the more expensive the repairs become for the homeowner. Know the signs of foundation problems and know when to call a reputable foundation repair company in Toronto to save yourself money and stress. Below are a few tips on how to watch for the tell-tale signs of foundation problems or that you need foundation repairs.
The tell-tale signs of foundation issues
Overall, it is important to monitor your home’s structural integrity, including its interior, exterior and foundation. Luckily, you don’t need a full foundation inspection to notice the visible signs of foundation problems, which often show up in walls, floors, ceilings, and basements.
Window or door issues
Doors and windows should not be opening or closing all on their own. Yet, if you notice this to be the case, it could be a warning sign of a sagging or uneven foundation. On top of windows and doors, this could also affect the house’s cabinets, wall hangings, or other permanent structures. While a small amount of foundational shift is normal, it is time to call a foundation repair company in Toronto for a foundation inspection if it begins to affect doors and windows. The sooner, the better, as even a minor repair could fix the issue.
Visible cracks
It is important to note that while certain wall or foundation cracks may be cause for concern, not all cracks on a wall may point to foundational problems. For example, smaller cracks beside windows and floors may be a drywall or framing issue rather than a foundation issue. It is possible to identify cracks that could be associated with a foundational problem. Those wall cracks that widen from end-to-end or exceed one-eighth of an inch in width are both reasons to call a foundation repair company. Along with wall cracks, those that leak water should be an immediate cause for concern.
Floors or ceilings sag and look uneven.
Calling a professional at first sight of a sagging ceiling or floor is essential. This could indicate minor to major foundation issues and a variety of repairs. A sagging ceiling or floor could indicate a shifting foundation and a weakening foundation (or support beams). Besides sagging, the floor and ceiling may also warp.
Mildew or musty smells in the basement
When there are cracks in a home’s foundation, there is room for unwanted or excess moisture to seep into the basement. If this is happening, there could be a buildup of mould or mildew, as well as an accompanying smell. While this may not always lead to a cracked foundation, it is essential to first check the foundation for moisture that could be leaking anywhere.
In no particular order, here is a list of the best Toronto foundation repair companies:
Toronto’s Groundworks is a foundation repair company with a unique background. The company started with the joining of three separate basement and foundation experts: Clarke Basement Authority, Doug Lacey’s Basement Authority, and PolyLevel Alberta Corp. Together, these companies are now Groundworks, offering foundation repairs services and much more in Toronto and Alberta. As Groundworks, they offer award-winning services backed by hundreds of positive reviews from happy homeowners.
Groundworks’ trained and licensed technicians are there for homeowners from inspection to repairs and until any follow-up maintenance is needed. In addition, their technicians are committed to putting customer needs first and finding the best solutions for varied foundation or basement issues.
Key Services & Features
- Foundation repairs
- Concrete lifting, levelling, and repairs
- More than 30 years of experience repairing foundations
- Floor-jacking and levelling
- Basement and foundation waterproofing
- Free estimates
- Offer warranty options
Customer Feedback
Yesterday Tom Parker came to our home as part of Groundworks. He sat with us to gather information and then reviewed our basement thoroughly to identify the issue. He took readings, photos, listened to whatbwe had to say and then discussed options that were the best for us. Thank you Tom for everything. Your honesty and excellent service will have me refer you and your company to others.
– A Briccault, Google
2. Royal Work Basement Waterproofing
Royal Work, a local and family-owned foundation repair company in Toronto, has made over 1300 repairs to date. Royal Work has left over 600 customers satisfied with foundation repairs, waterproofing, or their comprehensive list of other services. Customer satisfaction is the primary objective of every project or renovation for Royal Work Corp. They accomplish this with a strong focus on transparent communication, quality work, and competitive pricing. From the inspection and estimates to the final clean-up of the work, Royal Work’s technicians promise a friendly and upfront approach.
Toronto homeowners can count on Royal Work Corp. for reliable foundation repairs alongside thorough evaluations and inspections. They focus on every detail possible to create a foundation repair plan that works for your home.
Key Services & Features
- Foundation repairs, including underpinning
- Free estimates
- Egress window and window well installations
- Basement and foundation waterproofing
- Services available across the GTA and southwestern Ontario
- Offer warranty options
- Sump pump installations
- Drain and pipe cleaning
Customer Feedback
I could not be happier with this company and the work they performed! They quoted the best price out of 6 companies I contacted for interior waterproofing, installation of a sump pump and back-up battery, and capping of the existing foundation drain. The workers were very professional, they showed up at 9am every morning and were done by 4:30pm. The job was completed on the days they promised and in the estimated time. They did a very clean job and answered any questions or concerns I had while the project was underway. I highly recommend them. I have no affiliation with this company and I provide this review solely as an independent (and very happy) customer. Thank you Royal Work Corp!
– Tamara, Google
3. Aquatech Basement Waterproofing
Aquatech Waterproofing has helped Toronto homeowners keep their basements dry for over 25 years. As a leading basement waterproofing company, Aquatech also specializes in various foundation repair services. Whether those foundation cracks or problems are from water or anything else, Aquatech Waterproofing has the tools and training to make any needed repairs. For all services, Aquatech is dedicated to finding the latest techniques or technology to bring Toronto homeowners the best in concrete and foundation repair solutions or waterproofing solutions.
Take it from the more than 10,000 satisfied customers which Aquatech have helped over the last 25 years! These happy homeowners’s reviews often speak to Aquatech Waterproofing’s professionalism and quality of work.
Key Services & Features
- Basement and foundation waterproofing
- Foundation repairs, including cracks or underpinning
- Sump pump installations
- Drain and pipe cleaning
- Egress window and window well installations
- Free estimates
Customer Feedback
We discovered a foundation crack in the middle of a landscaping project. Aquatech was on the job within 48 hours. They were professional, arriving at the appointed time, answering all my questions and explaining each step of the waterproofing process. I feel totally confident with the excellent quality of the work done. They left the yard exactly as they found it. I would call them again in a heartbeat. Thanks Aquatech, you saved the day.
– Audrey, Google
4. TTA Service Underpinning
TTA Service Inc. is an expert in foundation repairs and general structural integrity. As one of the best foundation repair companies in Toronto, TTA Services provides a variety of solutions for keeping concrete and foundations at their strongest. In addition, TTA Service Inc. is considered a local basement expert. On top of foundation work, TTA provides basement renovations, waterproofing, or post and beam installations. No matter the type of work, their licensed and trained technicians will find the best solutions to meet your needs. What’s more, they guarantee up-front pricing from a free quote, along with no hidden fees or costs along the way.
Key Services & Features
- Foundation repairs, including cracks or underpinning
- Free estimates
- Basement and foundation waterproofing
- Reinforcements, including steel beam or post installations
- Window well installations
- Walk-out basement construction
Customer Feedback
I contacted TTA and within a day they arrived to provide an estimate (not gouging which I had with other companies when they provided costs). My job was a small concrete job leading into my garage to remove asphalt and replace with concrete etc. Teo has been available for communication during the whole process which for someone that isn’t handy made me feel more confident. The whole project from initial reach out to completion took less then a week and they have been professional and honest with me.
– Christopher, Google
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5. Direct Basement Waterproofing
Direct Waterproofing’s renovation experts include licensed plumbers, contractors, and renovators. Together, their team offers training and over 25 years of experience. In addition, each technician has 10 years or more of industry experience. Trust your foundation repairs, basement waterproofing, drains, and basements with the dedicated and customer-driven group at Direct Waterproofing. While they provide homeowners with a great deal of specialized experience, they also offer high levels of professionalism, quality, and craftsmanship.
Key Services & Features
- Foundation repairs, including underpinning, drain repairs, and leaky basements
- Free estimates
- Close to 30 years of experience
- Basement and foundation waterproofing
- Window well installations
- Emergency waterproofing services
- Services available across the GTA and southwestern Ontario
Customer Feedback
Terry and his team (Roman and Walter) were highly recommended by a family friend. Very professional and transparent with the job. He explained the work needed to be done and consulted with me before taking on additional work needed. They also helped in permit applications and rebate submissions.
They are very fast and clean with the work that they do. I would hire them again for any job.
– Ron, HomeStars
Choosing a foundation repair company in Toronto
Start the decision-making process with research. It is important to perform research on any contractor you wish to hire, including concrete or foundation repair specialists. Some areas to check include licensing, insurance, WCB coverage, or the company’s professional affiliations. Foundation repairs involve large-scale and complex work. So, you’ll want to work with a company that offers experience, a commitment to rain, warranties or guarantees, and a positive reputation. When researching a company’s reputation, online reviews are a great place to start.
RenovationFind Certified foundation repair companies have cleared rigorous background checks for financial and legal issues. In addition, they’ve shown proof of critical credentials like insurance, WCB coverage, and business licensing. Then, we hire a third party to monitor the companies to ensure compliance with our standards. Companies that are members of the Better Business Bureau have a higher rating on our directory. We also monitor customer complaints to ensure the companies remain accountable to their customers.
It is never too early to inspect a suspected foundation issue. If you suspect there is an issue, contact a foundation repair company in Toronto today! This work begins with thorough inspections and detailed (often free) estimates. The estimate phase is a no-obligation process and is another great time to research the company further.
Once you have a foundation repair specialist in Toronto that you’re happy with, you’ve also found a maintenance professional to help avoid future issues! The list above of foundation repair companies in the GTA gives you a perfect place to start the research.
This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com