Four Fundamentals of House Leveling
Home ImprovementHouse leveling is an integral part of home improvement that can increase the value of your home. There are several basic steps to consider when it comes to house leveling. You’ll want to make sure that you assess your home’s condition, make sure that any excess moisture isn’t able to seep under your house, inspect your base design, and install helical piers.
House leveling is not a DIY project.
You’re probably aware of this, but we have to point it out because there’s always that one person…
House leveling is not a do-it-yourself project. Under no circumstances should you attempt this on your own. Only experienced foundation repair professionals should try to level a house.
It is usual for foundations to settle. A certain amount of uniform settling is expected and is rarely cause for concern. The issue is a differential settlement, which can cause severe structural damage if not repaired promptly.
If you suspect your home is settling or needs leveling, your first step should be to contact experienced house leveling contractors Killeen TX and request an inspection. They will be able to tell you what is wrong with the house and the best way to fix it.
Make sure that excess moisture cannot enter your home.
A moist basement is a recipe for disaster. Toss in a humidifier, or worse yet, a damp pet, and you’re in for the worst time of your life. Fortunately, you have many options for dealing with this situation. Simple tests are relatively easy to perform and are an excellent place to start. This could include testing your HVAC system, inspecting your attic and crawlspace for leaks, or hiring a handyperson. You’ll save money and a lot of time as a result. The only disadvantage is that you will be completely insane for a few days. It is worthwhile to make an effort.
Remember your hygiene while you’re at it. You don’t want to be stuck with a moldy houseplant or a damp rat in the dead of winter. A damp crawlspace is also a breeding ground for pests.
Install Helical Piers
When you are in need of house leveling and foundation stabilization, helical piers are the answer. They are an affordable and effective option for a variety of home repairs.
Helical piers are steel structures screwed into the ground to provide long-lasting support. These structures can be used for heavy and light loads and are suitable for various soil types.
Before installation, a site must be excavated to expose the footing of the piers. A structural engineer then determines the location of the footing. Once the footing is revealed, a heavy-duty steel bracket is attached to the ground, and helical piers are screwed into the soil.
Depending on the size of the structure, several piers are required. If the system is light, only a few piers may be required. In the case of a heavier structure, more piers are needed.
Assess your Home’s Condition
If you’re planning to have your house leveled, it’s essential to determine your home’s condition. An excellent way to do this is to get an appraisal. An appraiser will examine your property and assess its value, considering factors such as water damage and other potential problems. It will help if you address any repairs before the appraisal. The process is lengthy, and you want to avoid being left with any unresolved issues. In addition, consider hiring a knowledgeable tradesperson to inspect your home.
It’s also a good idea to check for any problems affecting your health. Radon, for example, is a colorless and odorless gas that can seep into your home through cracks. This is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., behind smoking. Mold is another issue that can be a severe problem. If you have a mold infestation, it can cost thousands of dollars to remove.
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