Foundation Solutions » Foundation Repair Methods » House Leveling

House Leveling

Over time foundations settle, it is not always due to age as some newer homes have experienced movement in their foundations.  House leveling is not a DIY project and requires a consultation with a structural engineer to find out the general condition of the building. They will write up a report outlining exactly what needs to be done.

First, the lowest point of the structure will need to be determined and then temporary posts will need to be built from a secure and level ground underneath it.  Hydraulic jacks are then brought in and used under each structural member, slowly jacking it into place.  During the process, shims are added to stabilize the structure and bring it to level.

If there are soft spots under the jacks, they can shift and cause serious problems.  Proper placement of the jacks is important as the spot will need to be able to carry the load without settlement.  Screw jacks are preferred by many contractors instead of hydraulic jacks because one can feel how much resistance there is in them.

After the lowest point has been raised to the height of the next lowest point, the original jacks will be removed allowing the house to rest on the temporary posts.  Next, the structure will be checked for any problems that could have occurred as a result of the movement of the house.  The process is repeated until level is achieved.  When the floor is level and it feels stable on the temporary posts then permanent posts will be put in place.

Small movements are better than large ones.  Typically no more than an eighth of an inch a day should be done.  The house needs time to settle after it has been moved before proceeding to the next movement and its final position and the use of multiple jacks will typically make the procedure easier to do.

Moving a structure can cause roof leaks, cracked sheet rock and plaster and plumbing leaks to name a few things that can happen. Gas lines must be inspected after each movement as well as water lines. Often times a door or window will not close after house leveling but these are easily fixes with the use of an electric planer or similar device.

 As mentioned previously, it should be understood that house leveling is typically not a DIY project and one should consult a professional foundation repair contractor as these methods are beyond the scope that a homeowner should be considering.

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