Sagging floors are unsightly and dangerous. Here’s how to fix them.
Causes of Sagging Floors
Buying an older home is a great way to save money. However, older homes may have a problem with sagging floors. Over time, the wood posts that hold up the floors from the basement may have developed problems. The same can be true of floor joists that no longer fit properly. A house may also have problems with both insect damage and too much moisture. Both of these issues can cause the floors to sag. It’s important to have a home properly inspected before you buy it. If the house has a problem like this, sagging floor repair may be necessary but can be accomplished by hiring experts like ‘58 Foundations.
It Can Be Repaired
One of the best things about this problem is that it can be repaired. In many cases, a few simple fixes can get things right again. In many houses, much of the problem with sagging floors stems from problems in the crawlspace and basement. When the home ages, moisture seeps inside these spaces and causes the floors to lean and sag. You might notice gaps in the floorboards or even a tilt as you walk across the living room. You might see the floors appear to be higher at one end of the dining room. You might even see issues like nails that have popped up from the wood or cabinets that no longer look straight. This is why you’ll need to make sure the problem is fixed.
Add Metal
It is possible to reinforce the house’s existing structure. One of the best fixes of this problem is the use of metal reinforcements. Metal can be added to the floor joists where there’s a noticeable problem. You might be able to add a small metal plate to the flooring joists. If you have a lot of experience with home repairs, this is a good way to address the problem. If you don’t, it’s a good idea to call in a professional to engage in this process for you. The professional can see where the problem lies and then make sure it is fixed. That will make the floors less uneven. It will also make your entire home foundation more stable as you look to the future.
Using Lumber
Another way to prop up your flooring and remove problems with sagging is with the use of additional lumber supports. In that case, you’ll need lumber framing that is similar to the framing and joists you already have. You can add additional support beams to your current flooring. Then you can cover them with brand new wood supports. These supports should address the root cause of the issue by reducing the ways that water gets into your home. This is a job that is best left to skilled professionals. They can help you develop an overall plan that will make the floors more attractive and functional.
This is how to fix your sagging floors properly.
