Owning a house can make you feel good but you also need to shell out cash for repairs from time to time. One such common expense is foundation repair. Maryland and other states as well have residents who pay for a regular foundation check. It is vital to know that your house has a stable foundation. Whether it is a new construction or an old property, there are many factors that can contribute to cracks in the foundation. Sometimes it is hard to see the signs and it is advised to get a routine check-up done so that you are saved from impending danger. If time and patience are two of your good qualities then you can attempt to rectify minor cracks. However, you should first watch/read a self-help video or booklet so that you know what you are doing. While filling a crack, the mortar might not stay the first couple of times. You will have to be patient and try repeatedly to make it happen. There is no harm in trying, right? As this might take a few days to master, you should consider the cost of hiring an expert. You will have to pay him a fee but he will also do a satisfactory job. If you notice slanting or tilting chimneys, cracked basement floors and stairstep cracks in your walls then you should call up a foundation repair company to inspect the level of damage. These firms will send over qualified personnel who will check the foundation of your house and tell you whether you need a repairing job to be carried out. Slab jacking and Piering are the two most popular methods of stabilizing a foundation. Slab jacking involves adding grout (a thin mortar) under a slab or a beam. This helps in lifting the slab/beam to its primary position. It also adds to its strength. Piering is a more complex process which involves the use of hydraulic jacks. They are used to strengthen the underlying concrete slabs. Piering usually takes about a month to complete and is carried out when a property is in dire need of foundation repair. The main purpose of a foundation is to shift the weight of a house onto the rocks and soil. If this does not take place then the dwelling becomes unstable and it is time for foundation repair. Maryland has a number of reputable foundation companies.