A level house is essential for maintaining structural integrity and avoiding long-term damage. Uneven foundations can lead to issues like cracks, sagging floors, and misaligned doors. If you’re noticing any of these signs, it may be time to consider house leveling. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about house leveling, including the types of house leveling methods, tools used, and what to expect in terms of cost. If you’re in Long Island, Brooklyn, or Queens and searching for “house leveling near me,” this blog will provide all the information you need.
What is House Leveling?
House leveling is the process of restoring a home to its original level position by adjusting the foundation. Over time, various factors like soil movement, water damage, or poor construction can cause a house to settle unevenly. House leveling corrects these issues and ensures that your home remains safe and structurally sound.
Types of House Leveling
There are several methods used to level a house, depending on the type of foundation and the extent of the damage:
- Mudjacking or Slab Jacking: A common technique for leveling concrete slab foundations. This method involves pumping a grout mixture beneath the slab to raise it back to its original position.
- Piering: For homes with significant foundation issues, piering is a more permanent solution. This involves driving steel piers deep into the ground to support the home and prevent further sinking.
- Shimming: In homes with a crawl space or pier-and-beam foundation, shims (thin pieces of material) are inserted between the piers and beams to restore levelness.
- Helical Piers: These are ideal for homes with severe settling, where screw-like piers are drilled into the ground to stabilize the foundation.
How to Level a House with Jacks
One common DIY method for smaller leveling tasks involves using hydraulic jacks. Here’s a simplified overview of the process:
- Determine the Low Points: Use a level to identify the areas that need adjustment.
- Prepare the Foundation: Clear the area and ensure that the foundation is accessible.
- Lift with Jacks: Place hydraulic jacks under the low points of the house and slowly lift the structure to the desired level.
- Support the Foundation: Once the house is level, use concrete or wooden supports to maintain the position.
While it’s possible to level a house with jacks, this task can be risky and complicated. It’s usually best to hire professionals who specialize in house leveling near me to ensure the job is done safely and effectively.
How to Level a House on Blocks
For homes built on block foundations, the leveling process involves adjusting or replacing the blocks to stabilize the structure. This method is typically used for homes with pier-and-beam foundations. First, the house is lifted using jacks, and then the blocks are either adjusted or replaced to restore levelness.
How to Level a House on Piers
Homes built on piers (common in areas with uneven terrain or flood zones) may experience settling over time. To level a house on piers, contractors will use hydraulic jacks to lift the home and then adjust or replace the piers beneath the structure. In some cases, additional piers may be added to provide better support.
How to Level a House with a Crawl Space
For homes with a crawl space, leveling often involves adjusting the supports (piers or beams) underneath the house. Contractors will enter the crawl space, use jacks to lift the home, and either shim or replace the existing supports to achieve levelness.
House Leveling Cost
The cost of house leveling depends on several factors, including the size of the home, the severity of the settling, and the type of leveling method used. In general, the price can range from $2,000 to $15,000 or more. For smaller repairs, like shimming or using jacks, the cost will be on the lower end of the spectrum. However, more extensive work, such as piering, will be more expensive. It’s essential to get a detailed estimate from a professional contractor to understand your specific situation.
House Leveling Tools
Professionals use a variety of tools to complete a house leveling project. These may include:
- Hydraulic jacks: Used to lift the house.
- Laser levels: To ensure the house is leveled accurately.
- Concrete or steel piers: For stabilizing the foundation.
- Shims: To adjust the beams in pier-and-beam foundations.
Why Choose a Professional for House Leveling Near Me?
While some minor leveling tasks can be done as a DIY project, house leveling is often a complex process that requires the expertise of a professional. In Long Island, Brooklyn, and Queens, local professionals are familiar with the unique soil and weather conditions that can affect foundation stability. They can assess the extent of the damage and choose the best method for leveling your home, ensuring that it remains safe and structurally sound for years to come.
The Mudjacking Contractor is the expert house leveling contractor near me you need for your home. With over two decades of experience, their expert time will have your house back in shape in no time.
Call today for a free inspection and quotes at (347) 284-0280
Conclusion
If you’re experiencing signs of foundation settling in your home, don’t wait to take action. Uneven floors, cracks, and misaligned doors are all indicators that your home may need leveling. Whether you’re looking for a DIY solution using jacks or prefer to hire professionals, understanding the basics of house leveling can help you make an informed decision.
For homeowners in Long Island, Brooklyn, and Queens, it’s important to choose a local expert who understands the specific challenges of house leveling in your area. Whether you’re curious about house leveling cost, need advice on how to level a house with a crawl space, or are searching for house leveling near me, this guide has you covered.
By taking care of foundation issues early, you can protect your home from further damage and avoid more costly repairs down the line. Contact a trusted house leveling professional in your area today to get started.
