How to Raise My House

If your house is subjected to regular flooding, raising it may be the only way to preserve the health and integrity of its structure. This task should not be attempted without professional help. Contractors and construction workers can help you determine the correct additions for your location and house, work in the crawlspaces safely and provide a sound platform for your house to rest on.

20- to 40-ton hydraulic jacks
Construction materials
Contractor
Construction worker

Instructions

- 1
  Gather the information recommended by FEMA before any rebuilding efforts. Note what level of flood protection you require and want, what kind of flooding your house is -- or can be -- subjected to, the depth of flooding, the velocity of flood waters and the rate at which floodwaters rise and fall in your area.
- 2
  Decide which method you would like to use on your house. Options include continuous walls, separate piers, posts, columns or pilings. Call a contractor to come look at your property and help you decide on a plan. The make of your house, location and the type of flooding your home is subjected to will affect this decision.
- 3
  Raise your house up on hydraulic jacks. Depending on the size of your house, you will require a different size, power and number of hydraulic jacks. You will require at least a 20-ton jack, and possibly up to a 40-ton jack. This step should be done only by or with the assistance of a professional.
- 4
  Construct the piers, posts, columns or pilings. This work, too, must be done by or with the assistance of professional contractors and construction workers. It will involve working in crawlspaces and must be built to resist the abuse of floodwaters.
- 5
  Remove and return the hydraulic jacks to the renting company only after the entire platform is secure.

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