Basements & Foundations

Your basement and foundation are the roots of your home, so it’s important to know about common problems that could affect them. From basement flooding to a cracked foundation, and everything in between—our expert insights will keep you informed.

Two fathers and their children watch tv in basement
Photo: 10'000 Hours / DigitalVision / Getty Images
Two fathers and their children watch tv in basement
Photo: 10'000 Hours / DigitalVision / Getty Images
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From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Exposed ceiling support beams in home
Ginny Bartolone
•
Nov 17, 2023
Nov 17, 2023
The cost to replace a main house support beam may feel like a weight on your shoulders, but don't fret. Read the breakdown here, from materials to labor.
Person carrying bucket of cleaning supplies
Dan Simms
•
Jul 12, 2024
Jul 12, 2024
Crawl space maintenance can help improve indoor air quality and avoid structural damage. Learn how much crawl space cleaning costs and when to schedule it.
One and a half story house with concrete foundation
Rachel Hoffman
•
Jul 12, 2024
Jul 12, 2024
A foundation for a new-build home averages around $11,000. Find out all the factors that affect the cost of a foundation and how to save money.
A mobile house with plants and flowers
Ginny Bartolone
•
Jul 9, 2024
Jul 9, 2024
From pier and beam to concrete slabs, learn the pros and cons of the five most-used foundations to keep your mobile home foundation grounded and secure.
Exterior view of shed
Dan Simms
•
Jun 24, 2024
Jun 24, 2024
Need to build a solid base for your new shed? Learn about 12 different kinds of shed foundations and which might be appropriate for your project.
Two big trees in the backyard of a house
Jouviane Alexandre
•
Aug 14, 2024
Aug 14, 2024
Can tree roots damage a foundation? Learn what kind of problems tree roots can cause and the best way to prevent and repair foundation damage.
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A concrete slab foundation
Dan Simms  •  Sep 4, 2024
Footing vs. Foundation: What’s the Difference?
Can’t tell the difference between a footing versus a foundation? Learn how they differ and how to tell them apart in this guide to foundations and footings.
The exterior of an exposed brick wall house
Dan Simms  •  Aug 27, 2024
How to Keep Your Crawl Space Dry: 8 Tips to Prevent Moisture
Dealing with a damp crawl space? Use these eight simple tips to get rid of the moisture and water-related problems once and for all.
Upclose of man working on pipes and pressure gauge.
Mizuki Hisaka  •  Aug 26, 2024
What Is an Earthquake Gas Shut-Off Valve and Do You Need One?
In a seismic event, an earthquake gas shut-off valve could stop gas leaks and save your life. Learn more about its costs, installation, and benefits.
Parents playing with their son on the kitchen floor
Scott Dylan Westerlund  •  Aug 26, 2024
How Much Does Water Damage Restoration Cost? [2024 Data]
Water damage restoration costs vary depending on the severity of the problem, the type of water, and the length of time the damage has been occurring.
San Francisco row homes in the morning
Lauren Bongard  •  Aug 26, 2024
How Much Does an Earthquake Retrofit Cost? [2024 Data]
Earthquakes can cause serious damage, but you can protect your home. Find earthquake retrofit costs based on the type of home, foundation type, retrofit method, and more.
An open-space living room and kitchen located in a house’s basement
Mizuki Hisaka  •  Aug 22, 2024
How Much Does It Cost to Dig Out a Basement? [2024 Data]
If you’re building a new home, you might need to consider the cost of digging out a basement. Use this pricing guide to get an estimate for the project.
Basement living room interior
Dan Simms  •  Aug 21, 2024
How Much Does Basement Waterproofing Cost? [2024 Data]
Need to fix basement water problems or safeguard your home from damage in the future? Use this basement waterproofing cost guide to estimate your cost.
An encapsulated crawl space
Ginny Bartolone  •  Aug 21, 2024
Does Crawl Space Encapsulation Add Value to Your Home?
Before investing in a pricey vapor barrier, does crawl space encapsulation add value to your home? The answer is a little more complicated than you expect.
Front porch of new home
Dan Simms  •  Aug 21, 2024
How Thick Should a Foundation Be?
How thick a foundation should be depends on a few factors. Learn about minimum thicknesses for different foundation types and soils in this guide.
The exterior of a brick house
Rachel Hoffman  •  Aug 21, 2024
Parts of a House Foundation: Key Components Explained
Knowing the parts that make up your home’s foundation can help you keep it in good shape. Learn the parts of a house foundation and what each one does.
A spacious bathroom
Scott Dylan Westerlund  •  Aug 21, 2024
What Does Water Damage Look Like? Key Warning Signs
What does water damage look like in a home? If you suspect that leaks, flooding, or constant moisture have caused water damage at your house, this guide to spotting water damage will help you determine if you need to take action.
two story family home
Lauren Bongard  •  Aug 21, 2024
Is Earthquake Retrofitting Worth It? Stay Safe and Boost Your Home’s Value
Is earthquake retrofitting worth the cost and time? Learn whether seismic updates are a smart idea for your home and how to do it right.