FAQ
The following are among the most common questions we hear about foundation repair.
For answers to all your questions, please call us at 817-478-1181.
Call 817-478-1181
We’re the Fort Worth foundation repair experts
What are the main signs that should alert me its time to have my foundation checked for problems?
The main problems you should be concerned with are interior drywall cracks that are larger than hairline size, exterior cracks in the mortar and bricks, separation around door and window frames and doors that stick or don’t latch properly.
Why do I tend to have more problems in the summer?
We live in an area that is notorious for movement in the soil. In the summer months as it becomes hot, everything begins to dry up. As the moisture is pulled out of the soil it shrinks, causing the house to move. In the winter, as it rains, the moisture is put back in the soil causing the foundation to move back.
Is running my sprinklers enough to water the foundation?
Sprinklers are not as effective as soaker hoses. The soaker hose allows for water to slowly penetrate deep down into the ground while the sprinklers will strictly reach a shallow depth. Even if you are using sprinklers, we still recommend soaker hoses.
Am I required to pull a city permit before having my foundation repaired, and if so, what is the process?
Most cities now require permits for foundation repair. This process includes an initial engineer’s report that is submitted to the city along with the permit application. Once the repairs have been completed, the engineer will provide a final engineers letter that is turned into the city and in some instances the city will do a final inspection to close out the permit. We handle this process from start to finish for you. The price is included in the estimate and you will be made aware of it up front. Feel free to call our office to see what your particular city requires.
Why does Atlas have the owner manage or bid instead of a sales person?
Most salespeople are paid by the job so they will push repairs that are not necessary or needed. Our owners have worked out in the field so they understand the repair process from start to finish. They only recommended necessary repairs. Many times they can make recommendations such as increased watering or building dirt up around the slab to correct minor problems.
Should I be concerned about cracks in the slab or ceramic tile itself?
Minor cracks in the slab/ceramic tile and the corners of the foundation are a normal in this area and should be expected. They do not mean that you have a foundation problem.
Does watering really help prevent foundation problems and should I water if I have never had foundation repairs?
Watering the foundation is highly recommended year round. It helps keep moisture in the soil and can greatly minimize foundation problems. We ask all of our customers to start a watering program once their foundation has been repaired to achieve the best possible results. It can be used as a preventative measure also.
Do I have to transfer my foundation repair warranty if I decide to sell my house in the future?
Everything in our office is filed by the property address in order to keep things simple. When a home is sold we can send the new owners a copy of the warranty with their information on it. We do not require the new homeowner to call into the office and we have no hidden transfer fees. The warranty stays with the address of the property for the lifetime of the house.
My home has a lifetime warranty. Does this mean that my entire house is covered?
Our lifetime warranty covers the pilings that we have installed for the lifetime of the home. If you previously had pilings installed along the back of the home but are now seeing problems in the front, it may require new work. We aren’t able to correct problems in an area where we do not have pilings.
What are my finance options?
We are currently offering a 6 or 12 True Same as Cash option and a 5 year or 7 year 6.99% Reduced Interest Loan. These loans are provided through Enerbank. The process is simple and done over the phone. We also accept cash, check or credit card. All payment are due upon completion of repairs.
What will my yard look like when you’re done?
We take great care to return your yard to its original state. We will do our best to work around your existing plants and shrubs. If we are unable to work around them, we will dig them up, place them on plywood and continue to take of them through out the process. Once your repairs are completed we will replant them and haul of any excess dirt. Our goal is to leave your yard looking like we were never there.