I am looking for a professional who has the most expertise in stabalizing and/or repairing cinderblock foundation walls. Our addition is very old and poorly built compared to the very sturdy historic (1918) brick house to which it is attached. Not only was the cinderblock laid poorly, but apparently a long time ago (40 years?), some idiot poured a solid concrete staircase outside right against the wall. The staircase is now sinking and pulling half the wall with it.
Here’s my question: What category of contractor should I be looking under, and how do I really know they know their stuff? All the home improvement and “restoration” contractors in my area just seem to do interior remodeling. I DON’T TRUST interior remodelers with something as important as a structure-supporting wall! How do I find someone who really knows their stuff?
Oh yes… and the best answer will include why or how they know who should be contacted.
Asked by:fluvial_shell
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For concrete work you want a mason. You can also look through the phone book for them then check the bbb.com on line and find out if there are any cases against them.
masonry contractor
I find a company/contractor that specializes in foundations. Check you yellow pages.
call a masonry contractor and see if he has tackled anything like this…i have replaced several walls and whole foundations on existing houses…restoration is always a little different than building new…
Building trades for a problem like this usually require an estimate or two. Reliable masons will be more than happy to provide you with references that you can call or visit to check. It is in your best interest to get a fully licensed and bonded contractor to do this job. Yes the price will not be cheap, and the lowest estimate is not always the best. Get at least two or more and if they are very much different ask why. The more questions you ask of them the better the result will be. Remember the professionals make the job look easy and the quality will reflect in their work. Ask the one you select if there is previous work you can go see and check references.