The average foundation repair can last anywhere from 5-30 years, depending on the type of foundation you have and the severity of the cracks. Foundation repairs are necessary for properties that have experienced damage due to settling or shifting soil, improper grading around your home, or other structural problems. However, not all foundation repairs will last this long - some might need additional work in order to keep them stable. This is why it's essential to hire a reputable foundation contractor when repairing your property.

There is no one answer on how long the foundation repairs take, but there are some common factors that will determine whether or not your home requires additional foundation repair. These include inadequate drainage, poor soil conditions, improper installation, and other structural problems.

What Will Happen If You Don't Repair Your Foundation?

If you don't repair your foundation and allow the cracks to worsen over time, it will become increasingly more difficult to make repairs. Additionally, it can affect nearby structures like patios or walkways that sit near your home. If the damage is severe enough, small cracks on your foundation could evolve into larger ones that expose underlying structural components, such as brick or wood.

How Long Should Foundation Repairs Last?

As previously stated, the average foundation repair lasts anywhere between 5-30 years. However, many factors influence how long repairs last. For example, if your soil isn't structurally sound or it doesn't drain adequately enough to support your home's foundation, you're likely to experience more damage over time. Here are some of the repairs you can make and how long they would last.

Epoxy Injections

Epoxy injections are one of the most effective ways to repair hairline cracks on your foundation. They work by injecting a glue-like substance into hairline or small cracks, which will help prevent them from growing larger. This can be done through ports that are drilled into the foundation, and it would usually last anywhere between 5-15 years.

Bowing Walls' Straps, Anchors, and Tiebacks

When your foundation is bowed due to inadequate drainage around the property, it might look unsightly - but more importantly, it can be structurally dangerous. Bowing walls are likely to crack over time and will need to be stabilized in order to repair the damage. Straps are usually installed on top of your home's foundation, while anchors are added to the bottom. These are used in conjunction with tiebacks, which will help straighten your walls and reinforce them against future damage. These repairs can last for many years, even decades.

Helical and Steel Piers

Helical piers are one of the most commonly used foundation repair techniques since they are relatively easy to install without removing your home's interior walls. They are driven into the soil under your foundation and help provide additional support while preventing sinking. They can last for up to 30 years on average, but it depends on how effective the installation was, which is why you should hire a reputable foundation contractor to ensure the job was done properly.

Crawl Space Encapsulation

When your crawl space floods or becomes humid because of poor ventilation, it can result in serious structural issues for your home's foundation. Water can seep into cracks or weak spots on your foundation, which will lead to deterioration over time. Crawl space encapsulation is the process of installing a vapour barrier under your foundation, which will reduce humidity levels in your crawl space and prevent water from triggering further damage.

Mud Jacking, Slab Jacking, House Leveling For Sunken Homes

When your home has sunk or settled, it can be distressing, but it could lead to further structural damage if not treated quickly. If the water table is high enough (and this level isn't reduced), you might need to install piers under your foundation that will lift your house back into place. Mud jacking and slab jacking techniques are commonly used for this type of repair. When done correctly, it can prevent further structural damage and increase your home's overall stability. These repairs, when done correctly can last up to a decade.

If you're experiencing foundation damage, it's essential that you hire a reputable foundation repair contractor to assess the situation and provide you with an effective solution. It might be costly upfront, but it will help save money down the line to fix the issue permanently.