1. Why Picking the Right Foundation Contractor Really Matters

If you're reading this, chances are something doesn’t feel quite right with your home or future build. Maybe you’ve seen a crack in your wall, or maybe you’re just trying to start a new project the right way. Either way, you’ve got one big question in front of you:

"Who can I trust to handle the foundation?"

We get it. Your foundation is literally the base of everything. If it's not done right, the rest of the job—no matter how beautiful—won’t hold up. And around here, with our Alabama clay soils and shifting ground, cutting corners is not an option.

At PennyEarned Concrete and Site Prep, we’ve worked with homeowners, builders, and landowners throughout Montgomery, Autauga, Elmore, Lowndes, Bullock, Macon, Tallapoosa, Chilton, Dallas, and Pike Counties, and we’ve seen the good, the bad, and the downright scary when it comes to foundation work. So let’s help you pick the right team—whether it’s us or someone else.

2. What Most Homeowners in Montgomery Worry About (And Why They’re Right)

If you're feeling a mix of confusion, frustration, and even fear, you're not alone.

• You might worry about hiring someone who disappears mid-project.
  

• You might fear hidden costs once the digging starts.
  

• Or maybe you just don’t want to get stuck fixing someone else’s mistakes five years from now.

These are valid concerns. We’ve met many folks in this area who’ve had foundation work done and are now paying to undo what was rushed or overlooked.

In Alabama, the land varies—from red clay that holds water to soft soil that shifts when it dries out. The truth is, what works in one county might not work five miles down the road. That’s why finding a contractor who understands this land isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s critical.

3. Foundation Problems Are More Common Than You Think

Many foundation issues start out small:

• A tiny crack in your block wall.
  

• A door that sticks just a little.
  

• A hairline fracture in your slab.

But here’s the thing: Montgomery County and surrounding areas are no strangers to soil movement, especially with frequent rain and seasonal heat. That movement adds up over time. And while the symptoms might seem cosmetic, they can quickly turn into structural issues.

If your home feels "off," trust your gut. It’s better to get a professional opinion now than wait until the fix costs double—or worse, requires a full replacement.

4. Red Flags: How to Spot a Contractor You Shouldn’t Hire

There are a lot of foundation contractors out there. But not all are created equal. Here are a few warning signs that should stop you in your tracks:

• No written estimate. If they won’t put it on paper, walk away.
  

• Won’t answer basic questions. If someone dodges questions or talks in circles, that’s a problem.
  

• No references or online reviews. In today’s world, that’s a big red flag.
  

• Pushy sales tactics. You should never feel pressured to say “yes” on the spot.

You’re trusting someone with the ground beneath your feet—literally. They should act like it.

5. What Makes a Great Foundation Contractor in Alabama?

A good contractor brings equipment.
A great one brings experience, patience, and local knowledge.

Here’s what we think makes a foundation contractor stand out:

• Understands local soil conditions.
  

• Communicates clearly and often.
  

• Explains the “why” behind every step.
  

• Knows how to work alongside other trades.
  

• Prioritizes safety and cleanup.

Whether you're pouring a new foundation or fixing an old one, your contractor should make things easier—not add stress.

6. Foundation Repair vs. New Foundation Work—Know What You Need

Sometimes folks call us thinking they need a brand-new foundation, when in reality a targeted repair will do the job. Other times, it’s the opposite—they’re patching up a foundation that’s too far gone.

So how do you know?

• New construction? You’ll need full excavation, footings, forms, and slab or block foundation work.
  

• Older home issues? You may need repairs, piering, or waterproofing depending on the cause.

That’s where an honest contractor comes in. The goal isn’t to sell you more—it’s to make sure your foundation is safe, strong, and fits your long-term needs.

7. Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Foundation Contractor Near You

Not sure where to start? Here’s a solid list of questions to bring to any initial conversation:

• How many years have you worked in this region?
  

• What kind of foundations do you specialize in?
  

• Can I see examples of similar work you've done?
  

• What’s your process for inspecting the site?
  

• How do you handle weather delays?
  

• Will you be on-site or sending subcontractors?

The answers will tell you everything you need to know.

8. Reviews Matter: How to Read Between the Lines

Reviews are helpful—but they’re not all created equal. When reading online testimonials, keep an eye out for:

• Repeated themes. Are people saying the same good (or bad) things over and over?
  

• Details. Vague “they were great!” reviews don’t mean much. Look for real project descriptions.
  

• How problems were handled. Did the company make things right when issues came up?

Don’t just chase five stars. Chase honesty.

9. What It Really Costs to Hire a Foundation Contractor in Montgomery

Let’s talk dollars.

The cost of foundation work in this area depends on:

• Soil conditions
  

• Project size
  

• Type of foundation (block, slab, pier & beam, etc.)
  

• Accessibility of the site
  

• Drainage or grading issues

On average, basic repairs might run $2,000–$10,000, while new foundations for homes can go $15,000–$40,000+ depending on the design and materials.

We always encourage folks to budget for surprises. Once we start digging, sometimes we find things that couldn’t be seen at the surface—old roots, buried debris, poor soil, or even water issues. A good contractor will talk you through these, not spring them on you at the end.

10. Why Local Knowledge Makes a Big Difference in Foundation Work

We’ve worked throughout Montgomery County and beyond, and we’ve learned that the ground tells its own story.

Some areas have heavy clay. Others have sandy loam. Some spots are rocky underneath. And a foundation that works in Chilton County might not hold up the same way in Bullock.

That’s why we approach each job with fresh eyes. Because your site isn’t just another job—it’s your future home, investment, or legacy.

11. How We Approach Foundation Projects at PennyEarned Concrete and Site Prep

We’re not a giant outfit. But we like it that way.

Every project we take on gets our full attention. Here’s how we typically handle a foundation job:

1. We start with a site visit. We walk the land, check slopes, drainage, and talk with you about the purpose of the build.
   

2. We plan carefully. That includes digging depth, footing width, concrete specs, and rebar layout.
   

3. We communicate at every step. You won’t be left guessing.
   

4. We clean up. Because your property shouldn’t look like a war zone when we leave.

And if anything unexpected comes up during the work, we stop and talk with you before moving forward.

12. Next Steps: Finding the Right Fit for Your Property

Whether you’re building a new home in Montgomery County or repairing an old farmhouse in Dallas County, the foundation matters more than just about anything else.

Take your time. Ask questions. And go with a team that respects your property, your time, and your budget.

At PennyEarned Concrete and Site Prep, we’re here when you’re ready. And even if we’re not the right fit for your job, we’re happy to point you toward someone who is. Because doing it right means more to us than just getting the job.