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How to Fix a Sagging Floor in a New Home

A sagging floor in a new home can be a discouraging discovery. Sagging may be due to damaged wood, a sinking foundation or moisture damage to the joists. Sometimes, excessive weight can cause sill plates to break. You can raise the floor with a hydraulic jack. This is a big job that may take more than one day. It is a good idea to have your foundation checked by a professional before attempting this repair. Jacking the floor up will not help if your foundation is crumbling.

Things You'll Need

  • Rafter ties (2)
  • 4-by-6 wooden beam
  • Large wooden column
  • Saw
  • Screws
  • Drill
  • Masonry screws
  • 1/4-inch steel plate
  • Hydraulic jacks
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Instructions

    • 1

      Attach two rafter ties to the top of a 4-by-6 wooden beam, long enough to span the entire floor length from underneath, with screws.

    • 2

      Fix the rafter ties to two strong joints on the underside of the floor.

    • 3

      Place a large wooden column directly underneath the beam attached to the joists. Secure it to the floor with masonry screws.

    • 4

      Position a 1/4-inch steel plate onto the large wooden column. Place the feet of a set of hydraulic jacks onto the metal plate.

    • 5

      Raise the jacks up to the wooden beam. Make sure the jacks are evenly spaced along the beam.

    • 6

      Lift the jacks only an 1/8-inch per day to prevent cracking or buckling of the floor.