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Frequently Asked Questions About Foundation Repair

Understanding the Evaluation Process at Risen Foundation Solutions

At Risen Foundation Solutions, we believe an informed homeowner is an empowered one. Our evaluation process is designed to be thorough, transparent, and tailored to your home's specific needs. Whether you're dealing with visible signs of foundation issues or just want peace of mind, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions to help you understand what to expect before, during, and after your foundation evaluation.

Logistics & Timing

  • Q. How long does an evaluation take?

     A: Depending on the size of the home, the foundation expert collects all the data required in about 30 minutes. Depending on how many questions the homeowner has, can extend the full evaluation time to an hour or more. Our evaluators have other appointments scheduled and want to be respectful of other clientele’s time commitment. 

  • Q: When can I expect my proposal?

    A: Our foundation experts have a 24-48 hour window to ensuring your proposal is emailed to you with the e-mail address you provided when booking your evaluation. If you haven’t received any communication within 2 business days, your personal information may have been recorded improperly. Please call your project manager, email admin@risenfoundations.com to expedite your situation or call us at (210) 862-7802 for further assistance. 

  • Q: I am ready to start my House Leveling project. Do you still plan to repeat the elevation readings before the scheduled work to see if there are any changes?

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  • Q: When no house lifting is being performed, do you repeat elevation readings after the work is completed?

    A:  Yes!  Our warranty is based on post-work measurement. It always happens!

  • Q: Do you recommend having the foundation looked at again over time? If so, how often?

    A:  If you notice something unusual —similar to what led you to contact us originally—we recommend submitting a 'warranty request' through our online portal. If it's been a couple of years and you'd simply like peace of mind knowing that your slab foundation is level, we're happy to come out and take a look. Just let us know!

Scope & Coverage

  • Q: What areas of my home will the individual need to inspect?

    A: The evaluator will observe the property from the interior and exterior. All areas of the main level floor must be accessible to place a measuring device (called an altimeter) to take variance readings and provide a proper proposal. The perimeter must be accessible to observe obstacles around the home that may interfere with the proposed plan. 

  • Q: What is the evaluator looking for other than measurements and observable cosmetic deficiencies?

    A: Our experts look at utility placement, connecting slabs that are attached but not a part of the home's foundation. The evaluator also looks for your plumbing clean-out as it is required to receive Risen’s limited lifetime warranty. The landscaping is also assessed to determine what will need to avoided during project work. 

  • Q: What happens if my concrete slab foundation is less than 12” thick in the engineer-certified area?

    A:  In rare cases—typically less than 1%, we may need to install what's called a 'slab bracket.' This is usually only necessary for homes with additions or older farmhouses that lack proper engineering. It's not common, but we’re fully prepared if the need arises.

  • Q: What is the expected depth range for these piers, and what happens if bedrock is deeper than anticipated?

    A:  The bedrock depth data for several homes in your area is 12 ft deep. Good news is, we do not charge extra for depth. We schedule your project timeline based on bedrock data.

  • Q: How do I know if my home needs slab foundation repair?

    Look for signs like:

    • Cracks in walls, ceilings, or floors
    • Doors and windows that stick or don’t close properly
    • Uneven or sloping floors
    • Gaps around window frames or baseboards
    • Cracks in the exterior brickwork or foundation
  • Q: What causes foundation issues in San Antonio?

    Common causes include:


    • Expansive clay soils that swell and shrink with moisture
    • Prolonged drought or extreme rainfall (common in Texas weather cycles)
    • Poor drainage or plumbing leaks under the slab
    • Tree roots growing too close to the foundation
  • Q: How long does the foundation repair process take?

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  • Q: How long does the foundation repair process take?

    Describe the item or answer the question so that site visitors who are interested get more information. You can emphasize this text with bullets, italics or bold, and add links.

  • Q: Do foundation repairs come with a warranty?

    Yes, most companies offer warranties ranging from limited to lifetime, often transferable if you sell your home.

  • Q: What should I expect during the inspection and estimate process?

    A reputable contractor will:



    • Inspect inside and outside your home
    • Use a level survey or elevation readings
    • Explain the cause of the damage
    • Offer a clear, written estimate
    • Answer all your questions thoroughly—no pressure to commit on the spot
  • Q: What is the expected depth range for these piers, and what happens if bedrock is deeper than anticipated?

     A:  The bedrock depth data for several homes in your area is 12 ft deep. Good news is, we do not charge extra for depth. We schedule your project timeline based on bedrock data.

Coordination with Other Home Projects or Repairs

  • Q: I already have a plumbing break, do I need to get that repaired first?

    A: If you have a known drain line break, and it is at or below slab level, DO NOT repair anything until your slab has been evaluated by our foundation repair experts. If you have a supply line leak, in most cases you need to have that repaired to prevent flowing water damage. 

  • Q: I just got my roof done, is that a problem?

    A: Depending on the severity of your foundation issue, we will still be able to devise a plan for your home. We may be somewhat limited in our ability to recover lost elevation and maintain the integrity of your new roof. 

  • Q: What about my sprinkler system?

    A: In most cases we are able to work around your sprinklers and buried lines. There are rare cases that present obstacles, but we frequently find solutions that are quick and easy. In rare cases you may want to have your irrigation professional re-calibrate sprinkler heads upon completion. 

  • Q: What if the post-work hydrostatic test fails due to a leak caused by the piers—is that covered?

    A failure would be highly unusual. This is why we perform both pre- and post-tests within a couple weeks of each other for verification.

  • Q: I want to get new windows and maybe some light cosmetics updated, does the foundation affect that if I don’t already have cosmetic issues?

    A: The foundation is the base for everything on your home. It is best to get your foundation evaluated by a professional before changing cosmetics. If you have already moved forward with a refresh or replacing cabinets, windows and other fixtures and furnishings, you may have slight cosmetic touch ups, but in most cases, you will not have to replace big ticket items. 

  • Q: Can I live in my home during the repair?

    Yes, in most cases. Reputable contractors will ensure safety and minimize disruption, but they’ll let you know if temporary relocation is recommended.

Understanding Proposals & Comparisons

  • Q: I am a visual learner, and I want to see the measurements evaluated.

    A: Your proposal should have a minimum of three attachments that include not only the measurements taken at the time of the evaluation, but of the general pier placement in and around the foundation.  

  • Q: I have quotes from other companies and don’t understand the difference in pricing.

    A: There are several different solutions to address foundation issues that range from addressing critical areas to encompassing the best fit for a slab which we refer to as a comprehensive solution. 


    The solutions provided may also include different materials to address your slab issues to include concrete and steel as the two major repair materials. Be sure you are comparing steel to steel, or vice versa. The best step to take is to consult your project manager to understand the specifics of your plan(s) provided. 


     

  • Q: Why is 50% payment required 14 days before the job starts if the schedule is not yet guaranteed?

    A:  Once the Risen Foundation Solutions proposal is signed, your repair project is officially scheduled, and your time slot is reserved—barring any delays due to unforeseen events or 'acts of God.' Payment is required no later than 14 days prior to the scheduled start date.  At this point, permits are being pulled, engineers have been contracted, plumbers have been dispatched and utilities have been scheduled, this guarantees you don't cancel on us last minute, and we have to scramble to find the exact job size to move into your position and perform a significant number of administration activities causing a domino effect for downline team members. 

  • Q: Will I receive a lien waiver upon final payment?

    A:  No, once your final invoice is paid in full—and you’ve received a copy for your records—it satisfies our agreement and removes any right to file a lien against your property.

  • Q: Will Risen Foundation Solutions provide photos or videos of the foundation repair work?

    A:  We photograph all pier installation sites and document any defects we may cause during the process. Transparency is our top priority.

  • Q: Will I receive digital copies of the engineer certification and hydrostatic test results for my records?

    A:  After your passed hydrostatic post-test is completed, you’ll receive a digital packet containing all relevant documentation, including signed estimates, paid invoices, permits, the engineer’s completion report and certification, plumbing test reports, and your lifetime warranty certificate.

  • Q: How can I be sure I’m hiring a trustworthy foundation repair company?

    • Look for local experience in San Antonio
    • Check reviews on Google, BBB, and Angi
    • Ensure they’re insured, licensed (if applicable), and offer a warranty
    • Ask for references and a clear written contract
    • Beware of high-pressure sales tactics or vague estimates