Many cities require you to see a Registered Professional Engineer before you can embark on repairing your foundation. A structural engineering report is a crucial requirement that provides you with an unbiased opinion from a state certified engineering professional. With this report, you have an assurance of the entire process. Before doing a foundation repair project in Dallas, Texas or anywhere else, this report should be prepared.
What is Included in the Structural Engineering Report for Foundation Repair?
A structural engineer’s report should address a number of issues. Generally, it should include a recommendation from the engineer on how many foundation piers should be installed, as well as the type of piers to be used for the project. An illustration of the floor plan of the home with foundation elevations, plus where the piers should be positioned should be part of the engineer’s report. It’s worth noting that a structural engineer’s report is based on visual observations and an elevation survey. An engineer’s report will not normally include a soil test or review of house construction plans.
When preparing the report, an engineer will spell out their observations. These include issues such as the foundation and bricks having cracks, fascia separations, window separations and other pointers that might compel you to undertake house leveling. A structural engineer will also carry out slab elevation evaluation to check whether a house has undergone any differential movement.
A structural engineer’s report will define all the recommendations that should be included during the foundation repair and any processes associated with the exercise. Recommendations may include installation of piers to reduce deflection of slabs, carrying out plumbing tests, sloping the soil away from the foundation and installing root barriers to safeguard the foundation from tree roots among other issues.
When you contact a foundation repair company, the first question you’re likely to be asked is whether you have an engineer’s report. At this point, many people realize how important an engineer’s report is and how it can boost confidence in your project.
Advantages of a Structural Engineer Report for Foundation Inspections
With an independent engineer, you are assured to have a genuine deal as the engineer is least concerned about making a profit from you. As opposed to trying to sell you as many piers as possible, they will instead focus on how many piers are truly required to fix your foundation problems. Some foundation repair companies at times can try to convince you to skip this vital step but at Granite Foundation Repair we often recommend getting an engineer’s report.
An engineer’s report provides a clear road-map of what is required for a successful foundation repair. When embarking on such an important project, it’s always good to be prepared and have information including a navigational guide on how to go about repairs. So long as you have an engineer’s report, you have all you need to embark on foundation repairs.
When you have a structural engineer’s report, it will give you the assurance the foundation repairs will be performed correctly. With a report from an engineer, you will have a better understanding of how severe the problem is, as well as the best available remedies to fix your foundation. Using this data, you’re better prepared to search for the right foundation repair company to handle the repairs.
How Much Does a Structural Engineer Report Cost?
Generally, an engineer’s report varies in cost, but you can expect to spend around $750 in Dallas, Texas. However, it can cost higher if you want an engineer to provide you with a more in-depth evaluation. In this case, you can expect to spend between $900-$1500.
How to Get a Structural Engineer’s Report for Your House’s Foundation?
In order to get a structural engineer’s report, you need to get in touch with a good foundation repair expert or structural engineer to guide you on the process. When you deal with an established foundation contractor, they can make the necessary arrangements and order a report on your behalf from a certified and reputable structural engineer. Alternatively, you can search and choose a structural engineer of your choice. Whichever decision you make, you need to get your hands on an engineer’s report before foundation repairs can begin on your house.
If you suspect your house has a foundation problem, it’s advisable to have your foundation inspected. Fortunately, a reputable foundation contractor should be willing to provide you with a free estimate.
Feel free to contact us at Granite Foundation Repair. We provide free foundation inspections for all residential properties in the DFW metroplex.