Cripple Wall Bracing: Foundation Repair For Foundation Problems
Fixing A Sagging Floor
A sagging floor is common in older homes and are due to foundation settlement. Over time the soil under the foundation will settle, usually at different rates in different areas, causing the floor to warp and sag. The cause of foundation settlement can be poorly compacted soil, or the cumulative effects of earthquakes over time, but the main culprit is usually water. Water from leaky pipes, rain, or sprinklers, if it is allowed to collect near the foundation and soak the soil. Wet soil has reduced bearing capacity, and over time will result in soil settlement and foundation damage.
Causes Of Sagging Floors
Typically the foundation perimeter will settle more quickly than the piers under the floor, causing the sagging floors to arc and create a dome shape, wreaking havoc with doorframes and window margins. In short, the doors become difficult to close, and cracks in the finished surfaces begin to show up more and more often. Once the foundation damage has begun, if steps are not taken to correct it, the problems will increase and accelerate out of control.
Leveling these uneven floors with a hydraulic jack can be a very tricky business and should only be done by a licensed, experienced contractor. If settled portions are lifted incorrectly, it can cause even more damage to the structure, breaking windows and creating even larger cracks. If old wood is warped into an arc, it may retain its shape even after leveling house supports. This is where our experience and expertise can help you correct sagging floors and the effects of foundation damage as much as possible while preventing the more expensive step of total replacement.
If the foundation has deteriorated beyond repair, a sister foundation can be installed alongside the existing one and tied into the structure, bearing the weight and relieving the stress on the damaged areas.
