Foundation Leveling
Restoring Stability, Protecting Your Investment
House leveling is the process of adjusting the foundation of a house so that it is level and stable. This can involve shimming, jacking, and other techniques to correct problems such as settling or shifting of the foundation. House leveling is often necessary when a house has been built on unstable ground or has sustained damage from flooding or other natural disasters. It is also common for homes built on sloped land to require leveling to prevent structural issues.
How Does the Leveling Process Work?
The process for leveling a house can vary depending on the specific issues with the foundation and the type of construction of the house. However, some common steps in the house leveling process include:
Inspection
A foundation inspector or structural engineer will assess the condition of the foundation and identify any issues that need to be addressed.
Planning
Based on the inspection, a plan will be developed to address the specific issues with the foundation. This may include determining the type and amount of shimming or jacking that will be required.
Preparation
Before the leveling process begins, any necessary preparations will be made. This may include removing any landscaping or other obstacles that are in the way, and covering floors and furniture to protect them from dirt and debris.
Shimming or jacking
Depending on the specific issues with the foundation, shimming or jacking may be used to level the house. Shimming involves placing small pieces of material (such as wood or concrete) under the foundation to level it out. Jacking involves using hydraulic jacks to raise the foundation to the desired level.
Pouring concrete
Once the foundation has been leveled, new concrete will be poured to stabilize the foundation and provide a solid base for the house.
Finishing
After the concrete has been poured and has set, any necessary finishing work will be done, such as replacing any removed landscaping or other finishing touches.
It is important to note that house leveling is a complex process that should only be done by a professional. Improper leveling can cause more damage and lead to more extensive repairs.
How Much Does it Typically Cost to Level a House?
The cost of house leveling can vary greatly depending on the size of the house, the extent of the damage, and the materials and labor required to complete the job. On average, the cost of leveling a house can range from $5,000 to $15,000, but it can be as much as $20,000 or more for larger homes or more extensive repairs.
Factors that can affect the cost include:
It’s important to keep in mind that house leveling is not a DIY project and should be done by a professional contractor. And it’s always a good idea to get multiple quotes from different contractors to ensure you get the best price and quality.
Why Do House Foundations Experience Differential Settling?
House foundations can experience differential settling, or settling that occurs unevenly, for a variety of reasons. Some common causes include:
Soil movement:
Improper compaction:
Plumbing leaks:
Improper drainage:
Poor construction practices:
It’s important to note that differential settling is not always visible and sometimes can be hard to detect. It’s recommended to hire a professional inspector or a structural engineer to check for this type of settling and to make sure that the foundation is stable and safe.
How Do I Know if My House Needs
Leveling/Stabilizing?
There are several signs that may indicate that your house needs leveling or stabilizing:
How Can I Make Sure My House Doesn’t
Become Unlevel Again?
There are several steps you can take to ensure that your house doesn’t become unlevel again after it has been leveled:
- Address the root cause
- Maintain proper drainage
- Monitor the foundation
- Hire the right contractor
- Regular maintenance
- Regularly check the soil moisture level
It’s important to understand why the foundation became unlevel in the first place. Common causes include soil movement, poor drainage, and plumbing leaks. Addressing these issues can help prevent the foundation from becoming unlevel again in the future.
Make sure that water is draining away from the foundation. Install gutters and downspouts to direct water away from the house. Also, make sure that the soil around the foundation slopes away from the house to prevent water from pooling around the foundation.
Regularly check for signs of settling or cracking, including doors and windows that stick, cracks in the walls or floors, and uneven floors. If you notice any of these signs, have a professional inspect the foundation as soon as possible.
Choose a reputable contractor with experience in foundation repair and leveling. Make sure the contractor uses quality materials and follows industry standards.
Regularly inspect and maintain the foundation, including the slab, crawl space and basement. Keep an eye out for cracks, leaks, and other signs of damage.
Fill joints to stabilize slabs and offer sealing services for protection against stains, moisture, and wear.
This can be done using a moisture meter. If you see that the soil is too dry or too wet, take action to correct the issue.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your house remains level and stable for years to come.
House Leveling is Not a DIY Project
There are several steps you can take to ensure that your house doesn’t become unlevel again after it has been leveled:
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Complexity:
The process of leveling a house foundation can be complex and requires specialized knowledge and equipment. Improperly leveling a foundation can cause further damage and even compromise the structural integrity of the house, which can lead to safety hazards. -
Safety:
House leveling requires the use of heavy equipment such as jacks and piers, which can be dangerous if not used properly. The process also requires working under the house, which can be tight and cramped. -
Liabilities:
Attempting a DIY foundation repair can lead to further damage or even collapse, which can lead to significant liabilities, including injury and death. -
Cost:
Attempting a DIY foundation repair can lead to further damage or even collapse, which can lead to significant liabilities, including injury and death. -
Building codes:
House leveling and foundation repair work is typically regulated by local building codes, and the work must be done to the standards set by the local building department. A professional contractor will be familiar with local building codes and can ensure that the work is done to the required standards.
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