Should I Invest in Foundation Repair Before Remodeling or Vice Versa?

Does your foundation show signs of damage? If you’re considering having your home remodeled, you may be wondering whether you should invest in the remodel first and then the foundation repair or vice versa. Understandably, this can be confusing for homeowners. Many face budgetary and time constraints. 

Both remodeling and foundation repair can be costly. You will want to ensure that you get the best value for your money. Below we explore how you can do just that. 

How remodeling can affect the foundation? 

When designing a building, architects and structural engineers design foundations to support the structure of the building and the activities that they expect to occur within the building. Remodeling results in changes to the building structure. This affects the forces acting on the foundation. For example, adding a heavy cabinet to the kitchen or adding a room on top of the garage can result in increased weight on the foundation. This can result in foundation damage. 

It is important to consult a structural engineer when planning a remodel to determine its impact on the foundation. 

How foundation repair can damage your home

Foundation repair can result in damage to the upper parts of the home. This of course depends on the extent and type of the repair. For example, repair that involves lifting the foundation can result in damage to walls, roofs, and even countertops. You may notice cracks and other visible signs of damage in your home after the repair is completed. 

Foundation repair can also result in damage to plumbing and other utilities. You may even be required to make some changes to these utilities during or after the repairs. 

Should you invest in Foundation Repair or Remodeling First? 

While it is possible to remodel your home before investing in repairing your foundation, it is best to complete foundation repair first. If you remodel your home first, there is a good chance that your home will experience damage during the repair of the foundation. Cracks and other damage will cost money to repair following repair to the foundation. Your investment in remodeling could end up being a total waste of money. 

If you’re thinking of investing in a remodel for your home, be sure to consult all the right professionals before remodeling. Have a structural engineer determine the impact of the remodel on the foundation and have a foundation repair professional inspect and repair your foundation before remodeling.   

• 
  +