Problem

A homeowner in North Bellmore, NY reached out to Zavza Seal because they were dealing with uneven floors and structural concerns in their home. The issue was most noticeable around a load bearing wall and near a fireplace. Over time, the floor had started to sag, which can be a sign of weakened support below.

The existing structure was not strong enough to properly carry the weight from above. This created a risk of further settling and possible damage if not fixed correctly. The floor also needed to be carefully lifted back into place without causing cracks or damage to the home.

Solution

Our team at Zavza Seal followed a detailed and careful plan to fix the problem safely.

First, we installed temporary shoring to support the structure before starting any work. This step is very important because it keeps the home stable during the repair process.

Next, we added two new footings to strengthen the base of the structure. These footings help distribute the weight more evenly and provide long-term support.

We then installed a double 2×12 girder and securely bolted it to the existing foundation wall. New beams were placed directly under the load bearing wall above to properly support the weight.

To fix the uneven floor, we used bottle jacks to slowly lift the floor back into position. This was done in small increments between 1/8 inch and 1/2 inch at a time. The process took a couple of days because lifting too fast can cause serious damage like cracks in walls or ceilings. Our goal was to level the floor as much as possible while keeping the structure safe.

In the area below the fireplace, we reinforced the floor joists by adding matching wood members alongside the existing ones. This process is called sistering. We also used strong joist hangers to connect them securely to the newly installed beams.

Result

After the work was completed, the home had a much stronger and more stable structure. The floors were significantly more level, and the support system under the load bearing wall and fireplace was properly reinforced.

The homeowner now has peace of mind knowing their home is safe and built on a solid foundation. 

Structural repairs like this should always be handled carefully and by experienced professionals. Improper lifting or weak support can lead to serious damage over time.