Warning
This is an explainer, not a how-to guide.
Permits can run between $1,000 and $5,000.
Within the house, secure all loose items.
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Dig Holes
Holes are created in the foundation for the steel lifting beams.
For masonry foundations, concrete blocks or bricks are removed to create holes.
Insert Lower Beams
Steel beams are inserted through the holes.
The beams run perpendicular to the house’s own beams or joists.
Insert the Jacks
Screw jacks are placed under the steel beams.
Supports are placed under the screw jacks to prevent them from sinking into soft ground.
Because hydraulic jacks lose pressure, screw jacks are used for house jacking.
Tip
Houses must be lifted along key structural points such as carrying beams andload-bearing walls.
Raise the Jacks
The jacks are raised about 1/8- to 1/4-inch.
This slow pace gives all the interconnected materials a chance to settle into the new position without falling apart.
Insert the Cribs
Cribs, or wooden supports, are placed under the beams.
The cribs are built up in perpendicular stacks.
Repair the House or Foundation
Make the repairs to the house or its foundation.
Proper clearance must be achieved to allow the wall to be built.
Lowering the house goes nearly as slow as raising the house.
Attach Utilities and Mechanicals
Reattach electricity, plumbing, gas and other utilities and mechanicals.
The service drop or buried electrical cables are reattached to the home.
The overall process of jacking up an entire house takes about three to four months.
Raising the house can take from one to two months, depending on the size of the house.
Generally, you might keep items in the house rather than moving them out.
This is at the discretion of the contractor.
Securing a home from theft during house jacking can be difficult since thieves know that the house is unoccupied.
So, it’s often best to remove valuable items first.
Elevating your house.FEMA
The Complete Guide to House Lifting Methods.CRD Design/Build
House Raising.
International Association of Certified Home Inspectors.
