Quck answer
To level a wood frame house on blocks, follow these steps:
1. Inspect the foundation blocks to ensure they are in good condition and properly positioned.
2. Use a level to check the levelness of the house. Identify areas that are not level.
3. Jack up the low areas using hydraulic jacks and support them with adjustable steel posts.
4. Gradually raise and adjust the posts until the house is level.
5. Install additional blocks or shims as necessary to maintain the levelness.
6. Double-check the levelness and make any final adjustments.
7. Securely fasten the adjustable steel posts and remove the hydraulic jacks.
8. Regularly monitor the levelness and make further adjustments if needed.
By following these steps, you can effectively level a wood frame house on blocks and ensure its stability and structural integrity.
Wooden frame houses with pier and beam foundation provide a convenient crawl space underneath the house. This is useful for accessing those hard-to-reach areas that are susceptible to water damage, termites, and other pests. However, over time, the foundation may settle, leading to sagging wooden beams and an uneven house. Leveling a house with blocks is a daunting task that requires proper tools, experience, and help.
Step 1
Engage the services of a structural engineer to assess the extent of the damage to your foundation. It is dangerous to crawl under a house with footings that might collapse or beams that cannot withstand the stress of raising the structure.
Step 2
Crawl under the house and place a spirit level on the foundation’s beams. If the bubble is not in the center of the level, the structure needs to be leveled.
Step 3
Check the condition of the wooden floors and beams. Sometimes, the foundation may be level, but the wooden floor or beams may be warped, causing the house to appear uneven. Replace any rotten or warped wood elements.
Step 4
Outside the house, run a line and mark the low spots in the foundation. Place heavy-duty floor jacks under the low spots and assign a person to each jack. Raise the jacks slowly and simultaneously until the spirit level shows the house is level.
Step 5
Measure the new height between the ground and the beam created by the heavy-duty jacks. Build new piers out of blocks and place them next to the jacked-up low spots. The size of the blocks will depend on the pier’s height and weight it must hold. Use 8- by 8-inch concrete blocks for shorter piers and 12- by 12-inch concrete blocks for taller piers.
Step 6
Lower the jacks simultaneously and remove them from under the beams. Confirm that the house is now level.
FAQ
1. What are the steps to level a wood frame house on blocks?
Leveling a wood frame house on blocks involves several steps:
– Start by inspecting the foundation and identifying any areas that are not level.
– Use a hydraulic jack to lift the house slightly in the areas that need to be leveled.
– Place wooden shims or blocks under the lifted areas to provide support and adjust the level.
– Slowly lower the house onto the shims or blocks.
– Check the level of the house using a bubble level and make any necessary adjustments.
– Repeat the process for any other areas that need to be leveled.
– Once the house is leveled, secure the shims or blocks in place to ensure stability.
2. What tools and materials are needed to level a wood frame house on blocks?
To level a wood frame house on blocks, you will need the following tools and materials:
– Hydraulic jack: This is used to lift the house and create space for adjustments.
– Wooden shims or blocks: These are used to support and level the lifted areas of the house.
– Bubble level: This tool is used to check the levelness of the house and make adjustments.
– Measuring tape: This is used to measure the levelness of the house and ensure accuracy.
– Safety gloves and goggles: These are important for protection during the leveling process.
– Ladder or scaffolding: Depending on the height of the house, a ladder or scaffolding may be needed to access different areas.
3. Are there any risks or precautions to consider when leveling a wood frame house on blocks?
Yes, there are risks and precautions to consider when leveling a wood frame house on blocks:
– Safety should be a priority. Use proper lifting techniques and ensure the stability of the hydraulic jack.
– Be cautious of the weight distribution. Distribute the weight evenly on the blocks or shims to prevent any structural damage.
– Check for any signs of damage or rot in the foundation before leveling. Address any issues before proceeding with the leveling process.
– It is important to work slowly and carefully to avoid any sudden movements or shifts in the house.
– If you are unsure or uncomfortable with the process, it is recommended to hire a professional to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.