What Can I Do About Sagging Floors?

Messy crawl space

Sagging floors in a home can be a result of structural problems in the crawl space. Here are some causes and repair solutions for sagging crawl spaces:

Causes of Sagging Crawl Spaces:

1. Support Columns Spaced Too Far Apart: If the support columns in the crawl space are spaced too far apart, it can lead to inadequate support for the floor joists, causing sagging.
2. Rot-Weakened Joists, Girders, Posts: Moisture and rot can weaken the wooden components in the crawl space, such as joists, girders, and posts, leading to sagging.
3. Columns Settling Due To Weak Soil/Poor Footings: Weak soil or poor footings beneath the support columns can cause them to settle over time, resulting in a sagging crawl space.

Telltale Signs of A Sagging Crawl Space:

1. Tilting or sinking crawl space supports.
2. Moist, rotting wood.
3. Sagging, sloping, or uneven floors upstairs.
4. Cracks in interior drywall.
5. Skewed and unlevel door and window frames.

Repair Solutions For Sagging Crawl Spaces:

Installing additional crawl space supports is necessary to properly stabilize the structure. Here are the steps involved in the installation process using the SmartJack® System:

1. Preparing for Installation: One of our system design specialists will assess the crawl space and design a support system tailored to your home's needs. The location for each crawl space jack will be determined.

2. Placing the Pre-Cast Footing: Excavation is done to create a hole for the engineered fill. A pre-cast concrete base, or footing, is placed on top of the fill and leveled. The footing provides a stable base for the steel jack post.

3. Cutting the Jack Posts to Length: The steel crawl space jack posts are measured and cut to the appropriate length. The posts are made with galvanized steel for corrosion resistance.

4. Assembling & Tightening: Each jack post is assembled in the crawl space, mounted against the girder, and carefully plumbed. In cases of undersized or damaged girders, a new sister girder may be installed. The jacks are tightened to lift the floor back to its original position.

5. Encapsulating the Crawl Space: To prevent future damage from moisture and mold, the crawl space can be encapsulated. This involves sealing vents, installing an airtight door, and lining walls and floors with a durable plastic liner. Additional drainage measures may also be installed.

Advantages of the SmartJack® System:

• Adjustable design allows for floor leveling and restoration.
• Supports loads exceeding 60,000 lbs.
• Made with galvanized steel for corrosion resistance.
• Addresses problem soils during stabilization.
• Compatible with crawl space encapsulation systems.