Raising a house is a complex process often undertaken to repair or replace a failing foundation, add a basement, or prevent future damage from flooding. It involves carefully lifting the entire structure to a new elevation and offers a long-term solution to various structural problems. Homeowners considering this task should be aware of its technical nature and the significant planning and precautions it entails.
Preparation and Planning
Evaluate Foundation Condition
Evaluating the foundation’s condition is the first step, as it determines the extent of repair necessary. Check for signs of sinking or damage, such as cracks or unevenness. Drainage issues should be resolved to prevent future problems. A structural engineer or foundation repair specialist should be consulted to assess the foundation’s integrity.
Obtain Necessary Permits and Approvals
Before proceeding, it’s essential to obtain the required permits and city approval. This often involves submitting a plan that details the work to be done. Contacting the local building authority and a knowledgeable contractor will help ensure all regulations are met.
Choose the Right Equipment and Materials
Selecting the correct equipment, such as hydraulic jacks and cribbing, is essential for lifting the house safely. Using sturdy materials, like wooden supports or steel beams, is critical for temporarily supporting the structure. The equipment should be able to handle the house’s load without compromising safety.
Design and Structural Considerations
Any changes to the structure need to be reviewed for design and structural integrity, especially concerning load-bearing walls and carrying beams. A certified architect or structural engineer must approve the modifications to ensure they meet safety standards. The new design should integrate seamlessly with the existing structure, accommodating a new foundation if necessary.
Estimate Costs and Schedule
Developing a detailed estimate of the labor and materials costs is essential for budgeting. Creating a realistic schedule is equally important, as it coordinates the availability of contractors and equipment. Factor in potential delays to avoid unrealistic timelines.
Consider Safety and Insurance Coverage
Safety is paramount when lifting a structure. Guidelines for safety protocols must be strictly defined and followed. Additionally, verifying that both the homeowner’s and the contractor’s insurance policies are up to date is vital, providing coverage for any accidents or damage incurred during the process.
House Lifting Process
Secure the House and Prepare the Site
Before any lifting occurs, it’s crucial to secure the house and prepare the work area. This involves ensuring that the structure is stable and that any utilities such as water, gas, and electrical systems are disconnected. The surrounding site also needs to be cleared and leveled to provide a safe working environment.
Install Jacks and Lift the House
Technicians install heavy-duty hydraulic jacks at key points around the foundation. The lifting process begins with these jacks, often synchronized jacks, to raise the house steadily and evenly. It is imperative that the house remains level and plumb during lifting to avoid structural damage.
Raise to Desired Elevation
Once the hydraulic jacks are in place and activated, the house is raised to the desired elevation. The elevation process is done slowly to maintain the house’s stability and structural integrity. Monitoring is continuous to ensure that the elevation is uniform across the entire structure.
Temporary Supports and Crib Stacking
After achieving the necessary height, temporary supports and crib stacks are built to secure the raised structure. The cribs are sturdy piles of wooden blocks or steel poles that provide support while the new or repaired foundation is constructed.
Assessment and Adjustment for Level and Stability
The house must be assessed to ensure it remains level. If discrepancies are found, adjustments are made to the crib stacking to maintain stability and ensure the house is perfectly horizontal and vertical, reducing the risk of sagging floors or other structural issues.
Complete Foundation and Structural Work
With the house secured on cribbing, work on the new foundation or underpinning of the existing foundation can commence. This step must be done precisely to maintain the house’s structural integrity. Once the foundation work is complete, the house can be lowered onto its new base, and any necessary structural work can be undertaken before removing the temporary supports.
Finishing Touches
Remove Equipment and Clear Site
Once the house is securely set on its new foundation, it is essential to remove all jacking equipment and temporary supports. The site should then be cleared of any debris. This step is crucial to prevent any potential damage to the plumbing and electrical systems that may have been temporarily repositioned or exposed during the lifting process.
Finalize Construction and Landscaping
After removing the equipment, the contractor should address any structural deficiencies such as sagging or cracked walls. This may involve additional reinforcement to support the home’s weight on its new base. Landscaping can help manage drainage issues and add aesthetic value.
Retrofits and Renovations for Functionality
Post-lift, it might be necessary to retrofit certain areas of the house for improved functionality or to meet code. Proper retrofitting can involve updating the electrical systems, plumbing, and ensuring the stairs lead safely to the newly adjusted height of the house.
Inspection and Validation of Work
Finally, a structural engineer or inspector should verify the work to ensure everything is up to code and structurally sound. Obtaining city approval is also a critical step. This validation offers peace of mind that the house is safe for occupancy and that the work completed adheres to all relevant building standards.
Considerations for DIY vs Professional Services
Assessing the Scope of DIY Capabilities
Homeowners should evaluate whether they possess the necessary skills and tools, such as screw jacks and wood posts, to undertake such a project. DIY projects like house raising might seem feasible, but they require a significant amount of knowledge in areas like foundation repair. A DIY approach is generally not advisable due to the high risks and specialized skills needed.
Understanding the Complexity of House Raising
House raising involves complex processes, where every action can impact the structure’s stability. Homeowners must recognize that a structural engineer or architect may be necessary to ensure the house is raised correctly and safely. The complexity of this task often surpasses common DIY abilities and calls for professional oversight.
Legal and Safety Responsibilities
- Permits: Both DIY and professional projects require permits. Contractors typically handle this process, ensuring all work is up to code.
- Safety: Adhering to safety standards is crucial. Professionals have the training and equipment to achieve this, while DIY might pose significant risks.
- Insurance: Homeowners need to check that their insurance policies cover DIY house raising. Professional services usually offer insurance that covers the duration of the project.
In summary, while homeowners might ponder a DIY approach to jack up a house, professional services offer expertise, efficiency, and peace of mind when considering legal, financial, and safety implications.