1. Why Foundation Repairs Matter in Chittenden County, VT

If you’re here, chances are you’ve noticed something that doesn’t sit right with you: maybe it’s a crack zigzagging through your basement wall, or a door that suddenly won’t close all the way. And now, you’re wondering if this is something small — or the start of a big, expensive headache.

We get it. At Complete Excavation & Septic, we talk to homeowners throughout Chittenden, Franklin, and Grand Isle Counties who are in this exact situation. You’re not imagining things. Foundation issues are real, they’re stressful, and they don’t just go away on their own.

That doesn’t mean you need to panic — but it does mean it’s time to start asking the right questions.

2. Is That Crack Serious? Common Signs Your Foundation Might Be in Trouble

A small crack in the concrete? Could be no big deal. But when paired with other symptoms, it might be your home waving a red flag.

Here’s what we see most often in northern Vermont homes:

• Cracks that are wider at the top than the bottom
  

• Doors or windows that stick, or won’t shut properly
  

• Floors that feel uneven or “soft” under your feet
  

• Gaps between your walls and ceiling or floor
  

• Water pooling in your basement after rain or thaw

If any of that sounds familiar, don’t ignore it. Foundation problems are usually easier — and more affordable — to fix when caught early.

3. What Caused the Damage? Vermont’s Unique Soil and Seasonal Shifts

Why does this happen here?

Chittenden County and the surrounding areas deal with a unique mix of freeze-thaw cycles, clay-heavy soils, and changing water tables. One year it’s wet, the next it’s bone-dry. That expanding and shrinking of the ground can slowly shift your foundation, like a house standing on Jell-O.

Add in poor drainage or an old waterproofing system, and problems can build quietly for years.

That’s why it’s not just about fixing the crack — it’s about understanding the cause. The best contractors won’t just patch things up. They’ll dig deeper (sometimes literally) to find what’s behind it.

4. What Type of Foundation Repair Do You Actually Need?

Not all fixes are the same — and not every home needs a full overhaul. Here are a few methods you might hear about:

• Crack sealing – good for hairline cracks with no structural movement
  

• Piering or underpinning – adds support beneath your foundation
  

• Slabjacking (or mudjacking) – lifts sunken concrete back into place
  

• Interior or exterior waterproofing – keeps water out of your basement
  

• Drainage corrections – like adding French drains or regrading around your home

Some companies will try to sell you the most expensive solution. We don’t do that. We believe in giving homeowners options — and helping you choose what fits your house and your budget.

5. How Much Do Foundation Repairs Near Chittenden County Typically Cost?

This is the question everyone wants answered — and the one no one wants to answer clearly.

Here’s the truth: it depends.

But here are some ballpark numbers for the Vermont area:

Prices vary based on the size of your home, the extent of the damage, and the repair method used. That’s why the first step is always getting a proper inspection — not just a guess over the phone.

6. Can You Wait—or Should You Fix It Now?

We get this question a lot.

If a foundation issue is purely cosmetic — a single hairline crack with no leaks or shifting — it’s probably okay to monitor it for a while.

But if you’re seeing signs of movement, water intrusion, or worsening damage? Waiting usually makes it worse. And more expensive.

We’ve seen small problems turn into major structural concerns within a single season, especially with Vermont’s freeze-thaw winters.

7. What Should You Ask Before Hiring a Foundation Repair Contractor?

Not all contractors are the same — and when it comes to your foundation, you want someone who knows what they’re doing.

Here’s what we recommend asking before signing anything:

• Do you specialize in foundation work?
  

• Can I see photos or references from past jobs?
  

• What methods do you recommend, and why?
  

• Will this repair address the root cause, or just the symptoms?
  

• Do you offer a warranty?
  

• Will you explain what’s urgent vs. what can wait?

If the person across from you can’t answer these clearly, keep looking.

8. How to Compare Local Foundation Repair Companies (Beyond Just the Price)

Price matters — of course it does. But it’s not the only thing to weigh.

Ask yourself:

• Do they listen, or just talk? You want someone who hears your concerns.
  

• Are they pushing one solution, or offering options? The right fix isn’t always the most expensive.
  

• Do they know the local soil and weather? Vermont’s conditions are unique — and your contractor should understand that.
  

• Can they coordinate other site work if needed? Sometimes drainage correction, septic adjustments, or grading are part of the solution.

At Complete Excavation & Septic, we’re not a giant firm — but that means we can work more closely with homeowners and tailor our recommendations.

9. Red Flags to Watch for When Getting Estimates

Homeowners in Chittenden County have told us stories that make our jaws drop. Here's what to watch out for:

• A contractor who won’t explain the repair process
  

• Estimates that jump in price mid-project
  

• High-pressure tactics like “this price is only good today”
  

• No mention of permits or local code requirements
  

• Vague contracts or no written warranty

The best foundation repair companies don’t scare you into action — they educate you so you can make the right decision.

10. Why Homeowners in Chittenden, Franklin, and Grand Isle Counties Trust Local Expertise

It’s not just about concrete. It’s about knowing what happens when the frost comes early, when spring floods the low spots, and when your soil holds water like a sponge.

That’s the kind of experience you don’t get from a generic contractor driving in from out of state. Working with someone local means they’ve seen your type of land, your kind of house, and your specific problems — before.

And it means they’ll still be around if you need help five years from now.

11. Working With a Contractor Who Understands Your Land—and Your Budget

We started Complete Excavation & Septic because we wanted to do things differently. We don’t believe in cookie-cutter solutions. We believe in walking your property, seeing the damage with our own eyes, and talking you through every option available — from minor fixes to major work.

You don’t have to say yes on the spot. We’ll give you honest feedback, fair pricing, and space to think about it.

Our goal isn’t to scare you — it’s to give you peace of mind.

12. Final Thoughts: Ask Questions Now, Avoid Bigger Problems Later

If you’re dealing with cracks, leaks, sloping floors, or just that weird feeling that something’s not right — trust your gut. Foundation issues don’t go away on their own.

But they don’t have to ruin your year, either.

Start by asking good questions. Look for signs. And when you're ready, talk to someone who’s willing to walk the land with you — not just sell you a product.

We’re here when you need us.