Your home’s foundation is its backbone. It supports everything above it, so keeping it in good shape is crucial. Knowing when to get a foundation inspection is just as important as knowing what happens during one. Sometimes, you might need a professional, and you might be wondering, “How long does a foundation inspection take?” This guide breaks down the typical timeframe, the factors that influence it, and how Virginia Foundation Solutions (VFS) approaches the process.
What Happens During a Home Foundation Inspection?
A foundation inspector looks for signs of damage or potential problems, including:
- Cracks: Size, location, and type of cracks in foundation walls (inside and out).
- Settlement: Uneven settling, indicated by sloping floors, sticking doors, and wall cracks.
- Water Damage: Leaks, dampness, or erosion that can weaken the foundation.
- Bowing or Leaning Walls: Serious signs of foundation issues requiring immediate attention.
- Soil Issues: The type of soil impacting foundation stability (may require soil samples or testing).
Inspectors use various tools and techniques, from visual inspection and leveling tools to specialized equipment. VFS will conduct a thorough inspection, detailing problems and explaining proposed solutions to educate homeowners. This is especially important in new construction foundation inspections where potential issues might not be immediately clear.
The Average Foundation Inspection Time
A typical foundation repair inspection takes 1 to 3 hours. However, several factors can influence this timeframe.
Factors That Affect Inspection Time
- Size of Your Home: Larger homes need more inspection time.
- Accessibility: Easy access to all foundation areas speeds up the process. Obstacles like landscaping or items in the crawl space can slow it down.
- Foundation Complexity: Simple slab foundations are quicker to inspect than complex ones with multiple levels or crawl spaces.
- Existing Damage: Obvious damage requires more investigation time.
VFS debunks the most common myths about foundation repair in our recent blog!
After the Inspection
The inspector will present the owner with their findings, repair recommendations, and cost estimates. Review it carefully and ask questions. VFS provides a same-day, no-obligation estimate and will walk you through everything you need to know.
What Are My Foundation Repair Options? A Quick Look
Got foundation problems? Here’s the gist of common fixes:
- Push Piers: Steel piers driven to stable soil, lifting the foundation. Good for moderate settlement.
- Helical Piers: Steel piers screwed into the ground (like a corkscrew). Ideal for unstable soil or limited access. Common in Virginia Beach.
- Slab Piers: Lift and stabilize slab foundations.
- Encapsulations: Help mitigate moisture concerns within the crawlspace.
- Wall Anchors: Stabilize bowing/leaning basement walls.
- Other: Crack repair, drainage improvements, etc.
Every foundation issue is unique. Get a pro’s opinion—don’t DIY! Virginia Foundation Solutions offers free inspections, can assess your situation, and recommends the best solution.
What Products Are Used?
Virginia Foundation Solutions uses high-quality, patented products from the Supportworks network for lasting repairs. Here’s a quick look:
- Helical & Push Piers: Steel piers fare used tosstabilizefoundations by transferring weight to stable soil. Helical piers are screwed in, push piers are hydraulically driven.
- CarbonArmor®: Interior carbon fiber bracing for bowing basement walls.
- PowerBrace™: Heavy-duty beams for severely bowed basement walls.
- WallDefense™ Brackets: Stabilize poured concrete basement walls with cracking and tipping.
- GeoLock™: Earth anchors to straighten bowing block basement walls.
Read more about our products on our website!
Working with a Foundation Repair Company
If repairs are needed, consider these factors when choosing a company:
- Experience and Reputation: Look for a proven track record. VFS has helped thousands of families in Virginia and North Carolina. We are veteran-owned and operated, bringing honesty and integrity to our work.
- Warranty: A reputable company offers a solid warranty. VFS provides long-lasting warranties.
- Materials and Techniques: Inquire about materials and methods. VFS, part of the Supportworks network, uses industry-leading products and techniques.
- Communication: Choose a company that communicates clearly. One way we do this is through on-the-way calls from our specialists and crews.
- Pricing: VFS has researchers for fair and accurate pricing and provides transparent, no-obligation estimates. We offer Military discounts and financing.
- Location: VFS serves Hampton, Chesapeake, and Virginia Beach, offering convenient access for homeowners in these areas. Our team of certified foundation repair specialists and 50+ strong expert inspectors are local to the region.
Key Takeaway
Foundation inspections typically take 1-3 hours, but this can vary. A thorough inspection is crucial. If you have concerns, schedule a free inspection with a qualified professional from Virginia Foundation Solutions. We offer the expertise, honesty, and transparency you need! Call us at 757-340-0917 to schedule your free inspection.
