Problem:
A homeowner in Bohemia, NY contacted Zavza Seal after noticing sinking floors and structural shifting in the kitchen above their extension crawl space. The existing foundation under two key load-bearing walls was deteriorating and no longer capable of supporting the structure. The soil beneath the crawl space had become unstable and the dirt floor showed signs of poor compaction.
The homeowner planned a full kitchen renovation, which made it the perfect time to address the deeper structural issues before cosmetic work began. They needed a solution that would stabilize the home, level the kitchen floor, and rebuild the crawl space foundation safely and permanently.
Solution:
Our team created a full structural repair plan focused on stabilization, safe lifting, and rebuilding the foundation from the ground up.
1. Structural Stabilization and Foundation Removal
We began by providing temporary support to everything above the affected crawl space area. Once secured, our crew removed the entire failing foundation along both the south wall and half of the west wall of the kitchen extension.
2. Soil Preparation and Ground Screw Installation
We thoroughly tamped and leveled the soil to restore density. Five galvanized ground screws were driven approximately 4.5 feet deep into the ground at a ten degree angle toward the center of the kitchen. These screws create a stable anchor system that ties directly into the new footing. Each screw cap was set at least six inches above grade to allow concrete to bond inside the hollow core.
3. Footing Construction and Rebar Reinforcement
Concrete formwork was installed. We built a rebar cage and tied it to each ground screw cap to ensure the new footing would integrate with the structural anchors. Before pouring the concrete, we carefully disconnected any plumbing or utilities that could be damaged during the lifting phase.
4. Lifting the Structure
Using phase jacks, our team slowly lifted and leveled the floor joists to correct the sagging areas. This restored proper load distribution across the entire area.
5. New Foundation Wall Installation
Once the footing cured, we returned to rebuild a new cinderblock foundation wall, matching the existing pattern as closely as possible. We installed a new crawl space access door for long-term maintenance.
6. Crawl Space Floor Rebuild
The 14-by-8-foot dirt floor was leveled and prepared.
We installed four inches of new concrete reinforced with steel wire mesh to prevent future cracking and create a clean, durable, moisture-resistant surface.
7. Waterproofing
To complete the project, we fully waterproofed the entire subject area to protect the new foundation and crawl space from moisture intrusion.
Since structural lifting was necessary, we advised the homeowner that some cracking in the sheetrock or older flooring above may occur. Since the homeowner planned a full kitchen remodel, this was not a concern.