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
Explore top articles
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
The exterior of a natural stone house
Dan Simms
•
Jul 16, 2024
Jul 16, 2024
Unstable or sinking foundations require comprehensive and expensive solutions. Learn about foundation underpinning costs in this guide to set your budget.
large beige suburban house
Rachel Hoffman
•
Jul 15, 2024
Jul 15, 2024
Staying ahead of foundation problems can save you time and effort. Learn how much foundation inspections cost and what affects how much you’ll pay.
View from beach house looking at the ocean
Em Norton
•
Apr 17, 2024
Apr 17, 2024
Whether trying to protect it or transport it, raising a house is no small feat. Read on to find out everything you need to know about the cost to raise a house.
A traditional home with a wrap-around porch
Ginny Bartolone
•
Aug 12, 2024
Aug 12, 2024
Discover eight home foundation types for home construction, their functions, benefits and drawbacks, and how to identify each kind.
White beach house overlooking the ocean
Rachel Hoffman
•
Jul 1, 2024
Jul 1, 2024
Raised foundations are a good choice for homes in areas prone to flooding or on uneven ground. Learn if a raised foundation is right for your home.
American contemporary home
Dan Simms
•
Jul 8, 2024
Jul 8, 2024
Knowing how to hire a foundation repair contractor can be the difference between a permanent fix and more problems. Learn what to look for in this guide.
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Children splash in the rain
Alannah Koene  •  Nov 4, 2024
Sump Pump Backup Options and What’s Right for You
Don't let the rain get you down. Learn about the most popular sump pump backup options to keep your basement from flooding, even when the power goes out.
Red trench machine in action
Barbara Bellesi Zito  •  Nov 4, 2024
How to Use a Trencher Safely and When to Call a Pro
Using a trencher is more efficient than using a shovel when excavating. Here’s a basic guide on how to use a trencher for your next project.
A man trenching a garden
Barbara Bellesi Zito  •  Nov 4, 2024
What’s the Difference Between Trenching and Edging?
Trenching involves digging long, deep channels, but edging creates shallow, neat borders. Learn more about each method and when to use them.
Man using a trenching machine
Jenna Jonaitis  •  Nov 4, 2024
How Deep Will a Trencher Dig? Which Trencher to Choose
A residential trencher will dig 1 foot to 6 feet deep, depending on the machine. Learn how deep a trencher will dig and which trencher to use.
A kitchen with wooden vintage cabinets
Paige Bennett  •  Oct 30, 2024
How to Calculate Demolition Waste for Your Big Project
You’ll need to estimate demolition waste to rent dumpsters or trucks for hauling it away. Learn how to calculate demolition debris with this guide.
Worker using a shovel to dig a trench
Jenna Jonaitis  •  Oct 30, 2024
How Long to Dig a Trench: Planning Your Project
Digging a trench can take two to 12 hours, depending on the tool and soil type. Learn how long it takes to dig a trench and how to speed up the project.
Worker using using jackhammer
Taylor Freitas  •  Oct 30, 2024
Partial or Total Home Demolition Cost Calculator [2024 Data]
How much should you plan to spend when demolishing some (or all) of your home? Use our demolition cost calculator to come up with a budget for your project.
Man Operating a trenching machine
Paige Bennett  •  Oct 29, 2024
Can a Trencher Go Through Rock?
When planning to trench, you may be concerned about rocky ground. Can a trencher go through rock? Find out what your trencher can cut through in this guide.
Exterior shot of a bungalow type of house on a sunny day
Paige Bennett  •  Oct 29, 2024
How Much Does It Cost to Demolish a House? [2024 Data]
How much does it cost to demolish a house? Average prices for demolition vary based on home size, materials, and location. A partial demolition can make a project more affordable than a full house demolition. Keep reading for more.
Mini excavator digging out roots from the soil
Paige Bennett  •  Oct 29, 2024
How Much Are Excavator Rental Prices? [2024 Data]
Preparing for a big excavation project in your yard? Find out excavator rental prices by type, project size, and more to budget for your project.
Man digging soil at construction site
Jenna Jonaitis  •  Oct 29, 2024
Excavation vs. Trench: Key Differences and Safety Protocols
Excavation is any digging into the earth’s surface, and trenches are a deep, narrow type of excavation. Learn more about excavation versus trenches.
Orange trenching machine in field
Taylor Freitas  •  Oct 28, 2024
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Trencher? [2024 Data]
If you need to dig a trench, you might be tempted to do it yourself instead of hiring a pro. So, how much does it cost to rent a trencher? Let’s break it down.