Common Questions

Foundation Repair FAQ

Straight answers from DFW's trusted experts — since 2000

Cost & Pricing

How much does foundation repair cost in DFW?
Foundation repair in the Dallas-Fort Worth area typically ranges from $3,500 to $15,000+, depending on severity, repair method, and home size. Concrete pressed piers cost $350–$500 each; steel piers run $500–$800 each. The average repair lands around $6,000–$8,000. Small jobs can start at $2,500. IFR offers free inspections so you know exactly what you need before spending a dime. Try our free cost estimator →
What is the difference between concrete piers and steel piers?
Concrete pressed piers cost $350–$500 each and are the most common method in DFW. They're driven to refusal depth (typically 8–15 feet) and work well for most residential applications. Steel piers cost $500–$800 each, go deeper, and are often used for heavier structures or where soil conditions require greater depth. Neither is universally "better" — the right choice depends on your soil, foundation type, and home weight.
Does IFR offer financing?
Yes. IFR offers flexible financing options including 0% introductory rates for 12–24 months on approved credit. Standard terms range from 9.99%–19.99% APR for 36–84 months depending on credit. There are no prepayment penalties. Payment is due upon completion — never upfront. Learn about financing options →
Does homeowners insurance cover foundation repair?
Most standard homeowners insurance policies do NOT cover foundation repair. Normal settling, soil movement, and expansive clay damage are typically excluded. Coverage may apply if damage was caused by a covered peril such as a sudden plumbing leak, fire, or natural disaster. We recommend checking your specific policy.

Warning Signs

What are the signs I need foundation repair?
Common signs include: cracks in walls or ceilings (especially diagonal cracks from door/window corners), sticking doors and windows, uneven or sloping floors, gaps between walls and floors, stair-step cracks in exterior brick, and water pooling near your foundation. If you notice 3+ of these signs, schedule a free inspection. Read the full guide →
When should I repair vs just monitor my foundation?
Monitor: Hairline drywall cracks (under 1/16"), seasonal door sticking, small exterior hairline cracks. Track with photos every 6 months.

Plan within 12 months: Consistent sticking doors in multiple rooms, cracks wider than 1/8", water pooling near foundation.

Act now: Stair-step cracks in brick, doors that won't close, cracks with visible displacement, water coming through foundation cracks. Read the full guide →
How does DFW soil affect foundations?
DFW sits on highly expansive clay soil — some of the most reactive in the country. This soil swells dramatically when wet and shrinks when dry. The constant expansion/contraction cycle puts relentless pressure on foundations, causing cracks, settlement, and structural movement. Read the full guide →

Inspection & Process

Does IFR offer free foundation inspections?
Yes — completely free with no obligation and no pressure. Our inspectors evaluate your property, take manometer readings, and provide a detailed written report with exact costs. You'll know exactly what's needed before deciding anything.
What happens during a foundation inspection?
The inspector walks the perimeter checking for exterior cracks, brick mortar issues, and drainage. Inside, they check every room for cracks, sticking doors, uneven floors, and wall gaps. They take manometer readings — precision elevation measurements around the foundation. The process takes about 45 minutes, and you get a written report same day. See the full process →
How many piers will my home need?
Pier count depends on your home's size, foundation type, severity of settlement, and soil conditions. A small home with minor issues might need 5–8 piers. A large home with significant settlement could need 15–25+. The only accurate way to determine pier count is a manometer survey during an inspection. Beware of companies that quote pier counts without taking measurements.
How long does foundation repair take?
Most residential repairs are completed in just one day. Complex jobs or pier and beam repairs may take 2–3 days. Commercial projects typically take 3–7 days depending on scope. We'll give you a specific timeline during your estimate.
Will foundation repair damage my landscaping?
Some disruption is unavoidable — we need to excavate around the foundation for pier installation. We protect what we can and restore landscaping after work is complete. Flower beds, shrubs, and grass are replanted or replaced. Any significant restoration needs are discussed upfront in your estimate.

Repair Methods

What types of foundation repair does IFR do?
IFR provides concrete pressed piers, steel piers, pier and beam repair, drainage solutions (French drains, surface drains, grading), concrete work, and retaining walls for both residential and commercial properties throughout DFW. See all services →
Why is drainage important for my foundation?
Water is the #1 cause of foundation problems in DFW. Expansive clay soil swells when wet and shrinks when dry — this constant movement stresses your foundation. Proper drainage (French drains, surface drains, grading) redirects water away, keeping soil moisture consistent and protecting your foundation long-term.

Warranty & Insurance

Does IFR offer a warranty?
Yes. IFR offers a lifetime transferable warranty on all pier work. The warranty stays with the home — not the homeowner — so if you sell, the new owner is covered at no cost. This is a major selling point for DFW homeowners.
Is IFR licensed and insured?
Yes. Integrity Foundation Repair is licensed, bonded, and insured. We are a BBB Torch Award for Ethics winner and have a 4.7-star Google rating with over 440 reviews. We've served DFW since 2000.

Home Buying & Selling

Can foundation problems affect my home's value?
Yes — significantly. Unaddressed foundation issues can reduce a home's value by 10–20%. Texas law requires sellers to disclose known foundation problems. However, a properly repaired foundation with a transferable lifetime warranty can be a selling point — buyers get peace of mind that the biggest structural concern has been addressed. Read the home sale guide →
How do I choose the right foundation repair company?
Ask these 10 questions: 1) Licensed, bonded, insured? 2) Pier type and why? 3) Warranty — transferable? 4) Pier count methodology? 5) In-house crew or subcontractors? 6) References from similar jobs? 7) Timeline? 8) What's NOT included? 9) Financing options? 10) How long in DFW? Read the full guide →

Still Have Questions?

Get answers specific to your home with a free, no-obligation inspection. Same-day written report.