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Frequently Asked Questions

Are foundation repairs worth it?

When it comes to foundation repairs, it can be tempting to ignore the problem and hope it goes away. But, that’s not the way to go because foundation issues can seriously impact the safety and value of your home. If you ignore a foundation problem, it could lead to severe structural damage over time. That means the damage might make your house unsafe or lose value. And if you ever want to sell your house, you can be sure that any potential buyers will have the home inspected to see if there are any problems.

Can the foundation of a house be fixed?

Yes, it’s possible to fix the foundation of a house. Foundation repairs are common and can be done for a variety of reasons. The exact process for fixing a foundation will depend on what’s causing the issue in the first place. For example, if the foundation is settling, it may need to be lifted and supported with piers. On the other hand, if there are cracks in the foundation, those can often be repaired using carbon fiber straps and epoxy injections.

Is foundation repair covered by homeowner's insurance?

Most standard homeowner’s insurance policies don’t cover foundation repairs unless the damage is due to a covered peril like fire, flooding, or an earthquake. If your foundation issues are caused by neglect or lack of maintenance, insurance probably won’t cover it. So, it’s always a good idea to take care of your home and regularly inspect for any potential foundation issues.

What is the best price for foundation repair?

The cost of foundation repair will depend on various factors, such as the severity of the damage, the type of foundation, the materials used for the repair, and your geographical location. While you might be tempted to choose the cheapest option, it’s worth investing in quality repairs to make sure your home’s long-term stability. A shoddy repair job could cost you more in the long run if it leads to more damage. When looking for a contractor, ask for references and check their credentials. You want to make sure they have experience, and a track record of quality work.

What type of foundation repair is best?

When it comes to foundation repair, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. The best repair method depends on the specific type and extent of damage that your foundation has sustained.

Are cracks normal after foundation repair?

Some minor cracks are normal after underpinning. When a foundation is lifted via underpinning, this can put a bit of stress on the structure, causing minor cracking. However, if you see anything you feel is suspicious, contact the contractor who did the repair and ask for an inspection.

What is considered a bad foundation crack?

Generally, horizontal and diagonal cracks are worse than vertical cracks. Also, be on the lookout for stair step cracks in brick or masonry, cracks that are getting bigger, and cracks accompanied by bowing. Use common sense. If the foundation crack looks bad, it probably is.

Can I fix a foundation crack myself?

We understand the desire to save money by fixing a foundation crack yourself but don’t do it. Foundation cracks should only be handled by a professional foundation repair contractor. Here’s why:

First, foundation cracks can be caused by soil settlement, water damage, or poor construction. This means that the cause of the crack needs to be correctly identified and addressed. A professional foundation repair contractor has the tools, knowledge, and experience to accurately diagnose the problem and determine the best course of action.

Additionally, fixing a foundation crack yourself, can make the problem worse. You might not use suitable materials or techniques, which could further damage the foundation.

Can a house collapse from foundation issues?

Absent catastrophic events like earthquakes, your home is unlikely to collapse, even if it has a foundation issue. That doesn’t mean a foundation issue should go unrepaired.

What's worse: vertical or horizontal cracks?

When it comes to foundation cracks, both vertical and horizontal cracks can be a cause for concern. However, horizontal foundation cracks are usually a more serious problem than vertical ones.

Is it better to fix a foundation crack from the inside or outside?

The best way to fix a foundation crack depends on the specific situation and severity. Without an inspection, it’s impossible to say if it’s better to fix the crack on the inside or the outside.

When should I be worried about my house's foundation?

It’s always good to watch for any signs of trouble. Here are a few things to look out for: windows and doors that don’t open and close properly, uneven floors, wall, ceiling, and floor cracks, and stair-step cracks in brick or masonry. For more information, see Common Foundation Issues.

How many foundations have you repaired?

We average about 10 per week and we have been in business for 26 years.

How many years of experience do you have with foundation repair?

Our company was founded in 1994 and we have been handling foundations ever since.

What is the foundation repair process like?

The foundation repair process can be complex and is different for each project. We promise to walk you through each step.

How long do foundation repairs last?

It depends on the fix. Typically, foundation repairs will last a lifetime. Additionally, many of our products come with a lifetime transferable limited warranty.

Do you offer financing?

Yes. From beginning to end, our goal at Epp Foundation Repair is to make the process of fixing your house as easy, convenient, and inexpensive as we can. We provide financing for home repair in order to live up to this pledge.

Do you offer warranties?

Yes. The majority of our repair solutions are covered by manufacturer warranties. Depending on the product, some last 10 years and others last 25 years.

What are the major service area of EPP Foundation Repair?

Since 1994, we’ve served clients in Southeastern Nebraska, Northwestern Missouri, and parts of Northeastern Kansas by offering foundation repair and waterproofing services for their basements. The top cities we serve are Omaha, Lincoln, Grand Island, Kearney, Norfolk, North Platte, York, Sioux City, IA , St. Joseph, MO, and Topeka, KS.

What is the foundation inspection process like?

It usually takes around 1 hour and is a very easy process. We don’t use high-pressure sales tactics. Rather, we try and take an educational approach – equipping you to navigate the project successfully.

Why is a wet basement bad?

A wet basement can cause serious damage to the structure of your home. The excess moisture could lead to rotting wood, cracking foundations, and a weakened overall structure. This can be expensive to fix and could decrease the value of your property. Moreover, a wet basement can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew growth. Mold spores thrive in damp and humid areas. Once they take hold, they can release harmful toxins into the air that can cause respiratory problems and other health issues. A wet basement can also be a breeding ground for pests like rodents and insects. It’s not uncommon for rats and mice to take shelter in damp areas, and cockroaches and other pests can also be attracted to the moisture.

Can I waterproof my basement myself?

Basement waterproofing is a complex process that requires specialized knowledge and equipment. Unless you have experience working in the construction industry, you’re probably not going to know what you’re doing. Even if you’re handy and good at DIY projects, certain aspects of waterproofing (like ensuring proper drainage) are beyond the average homeowner’s expertise. Another issue with DIY basement waterproofing is that you risk not addressing the root cause of the water infiltration in the first place. Without proper diagnosis, you might throw money at quick fixes that won’t solve the problem long-term. This can lead to wasted time, effort, and money – not to mention frustration when the water starts seeping in again.

Is basement waterproofing worth it?

A waterproofed basement can prevent water damage and mold growth, which can be costly to repair and hazardous to your health. It can also increase the value of your home, as potential buyers will see a waterproofed basement as a desirable feature. For more information, see Basement Leak Repair.

What are the disadvantages of basement waterproofing?

Basement waterproofing can be pretty expensive. Depending on the method used and the size of your basement, the cost can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. This can be a significant financial strain, especially if you’re on a tight budget.Another disadvantage is that some basement waterproofing methods can be quite invasive. For example, if you choose to install an interior drainage system, it will likely require jackhammering up the basement floor and removing sections of the wall. This can be a messy and disruptive process, and you will have to deal with dust, noise, and debris. See Why Foundation Crack Repair Kits Aren’t the Best Waterproofing Solution.

Can you finish a basement without waterproofing?

The short answer is technically yes, but we don’t recommend it. Here’s the thing: basements are notorious for being damp, which can cause all sorts of problems like mold growth and structural damage. That’s why it’s generally a good idea to waterproof your unfinished basement before you do anything else.

How long does it take to waterproof a basement?

The size of your basement plays a big role. A larger basement will take longer to waterproof than a smaller one. The severity of any existing water damage or leaks will also impact the timeline. That said, waterproofing a basement can take a few days to a few weeks, depending on what needs to be done.

How many years does waterproofing last?

There is no straightforward answer to this question because many factors could impact the longevity of basement waterproofing. Some of these factors include the quality of the waterproofing materials used, the type of waterproofing method applied, the age of your home’s foundation, the level of moisture in your soil, and the frequency and amount of rainfall in your area. In general, most basement waterproofing systems are designed to last for at least 10 to 15 years, but some high-quality systems can last up to 25 years or more. With proper maintenance and upkeep, you can help extend the lifespan of your basement waterproofing.

What is the difference between interior and exterior waterproofing? Which do I need?

It depends on your specific situation; without a proper inspection, it’s impossible to say which one is necessary. Exterior waterproofing involves excavating around the outside of your house and installing a drain tile system and waterproof membrane to prevent water from seeping into your foundation. This is typically more expensive and disruptive, but it can effectively prevent water damage to your home. On the other hand, interior waterproofing involves addressing water issues from the inside of your home. This can include sealing cracks in your foundation, and applying waterproof coatings to your basement walls. This option is usually less expensive and less disruptive, but it may not be as effective in preventing water damage in the long term.

Interior vs exterior waterproofing, which do I need?

That depends on what the issue is and what you want to accomplish. Typically, most waterproofing is done from the inside of the home. If you have a unique situation or don’t wish to control water from the inside, we can then work from the outside. However, it’s usually a lot more cost-effective and also better to control the water with an interior drainage system than an exterior drainage system.

What if my basement is finished?

We get asked that a lot, and also face that issue a lot. If your basement is finished, typically portions of that finish will need to be removed so that we can install an interior drainage system. Not always, but it usually is better to remove as much as possible to make sure that we are seeing all of the issues, and we don’t miss anything because of coverings on the walls or floor. We deal with A LOT of finished basements and can help you properly remove the least amount needed to complete the work and then get everything put back together.

How much will it cost?

Fixing a foundation can be a very complex or a very simple process. It just depends on what the issues are. A typical foundation waterproofing job done by Epp is around $5K. But that fix might just need to be as simple as an epoxy wall injection, which could be drastically less than that. We can give typical costs and have several videos on YouTube discussing cost and how you, the customer, can figure out an approximate cost, but every job is so unique and different that it's difficult to give a specific cost to fix an issue.

What is your basement inspection process like?

After you call our office and book an appointment, one of our foundation repair specialists will be sent out to take a look. That appointment typically takes 45-120 minutes, depending on what the issues are and how many questions the customer might have for us. After the inspection process is complete, the foundation repair specialist will either give an estimate right there on the spot or a day or 2 after the inspection if they need to get any more advice, engineering, or the project needs another set of eyes.

Do you offer warranties?

Yes. The majority of our repair solutions are covered by manufacturer warranties. Depending on the product, some last 10 years and others last 25 years.

What do you base your recommendations on?

Our recommendations are based on a detailed assessment we perform of your home’s needs. Our proposals take into consideration your preferences, as well as your budget, to ensure you get the repairs you need.

Do you offer service agreements?

We do. We offer service plans for several items that we install. They can be purchased yearly or in blocks. We highly recommend that people purchase our service agreements, as it's great to have a professional come out and check your home for any issues every year.

How long does a typical project take?

The scope of work and what we are doing greatly changes our time frame. Our average (general) time frame on a project is 3 days. 90% of our work and our solutions take less than a week from start to finish. Some solutions can be accomplished in a few hours, and some may take several weeks, depending on the scope and what all needs to be accomplished.

How much does crawl space encapsulation cost?

A typical crawl space encapsulation job costs around $5000+. It usually runs around $7-9 per square foot.

What is the most effective way to waterproof a basement?

A few methods can be effective when waterproofing a basement, but the best approach depends on the specific situation. One commonly recommended method is to install a drainage system to redirect any water that might seep into the basement away from the foundation. Sealing any cracks in the foundation walls is essential to prevent water from getting in. Another option is to apply a waterproofing sealant to the walls and floors of the basement. It’s worth noting that basement waterproofing is a complex process that a professional contractor should handle. They can help assess the specific needs of your basement and recommend the best course of action to keep your space dry and protected.

How long does the crawl space encapsulation process take?

We can typically get a normal crawl space encapsulation job done in 2-3 days, depending on the size of the job. If a drain tile is needed, or any other structural fixes are needed, then it can add time, but it doesn’t usually take more than a week, even for a large project.

How long does crawl space encapsulation last?

We offer a 25 year warranty on our crawl space encapsulation when installed in conjunction with a drainage system, and a 1 year Limited Warranty that covers against defects in materials & workmanship, when installed without a drainage system. Realistically, encapsulation should last a lifetime.

Does crawl space encapsulation provide energy savings?

Yes. The vapor barrier reduces the amount of air transfer between your crawl space and living space so your heating and cooling system doesn’t have to work as hard.

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