What Causes Uneven, Sagging Floors?

For some homeowners, they know their sloping floors are a problem, but they don't know how serious it might be.

Knowing why your floors are sloping is key to deciding whether or not to repair it, and how to repair it.

Luckily, we have answers! Let's break it down. 

How Do I Know My Floors Are Sagging Or Uneven? 

You might notice that your floors are sagging or uneven when you see:

• Your floors are sloped. Sometimes, this creates a gap between floor and interior walls.
• Cracks in interior walls and gaps around door frames occur, due to a wall sinking along with the floor. 
• Doors stick, or have been 'shaved down' to close properly. 
• Gaps appear between existing columns and girders in the crawl space. 
• You notice shimming between existing columns and girders in the crawl space (a sign of past repair attempts). 
• Damage from moisture, such as wood rot and the deterioration of the floor joists in the crawl space.  

Why Is My Floor Sagging or Uneven Now? 

Your home was likely built perfectly level and strong. So, why are your floors doing this now? There's a few key reasons to keep in mind. 

Existing Columns Are Spaced Too Far Apart

When a crawl space is constructed, block or brick (sometimes, even wood!) columns are located throughout the crawl space to support the weight of the home. However, if these columns are spaced too far apart, the structure can become overloaded and sag between the columns. 

Floor Joists and Girders Have Weakened

Most homes have dirt crawl spaces, which is a huge problem for homeowners because excess moisture and humidity can quickly become a problem. Over time, this can cause wood rot in the home's girders and floor joists, meaning they can't support the weight above. The floors above the crawl space can then become bouncy, soft, and may begin to sag. 

Existing Columns Have Settled

Weak soil can cause existing columns in the crawl space to sink or settle, often causing a gap between the top of the column and the bottom of the girder it was supporting. Once the column settles, the girder sags and the floors above sag. It's a chain reaction. 

So How Do I Fix Sagging, Uneven Floors?

Our SmartJack© System is uniquely qualified to lift your bouncy, soft, uneven floors. Its engineered fill addresses problem soils and immediately lifts sagging, sloping floors, eliminating the threat of floor failure from moisture, mold or wood rot. Its adjustable design also enables a custom fit for each SmartJack©. Its quick installation allows it to be installed at any time of the year and with minimal disruption. Lastly, its zinc-plated and galvanized steel components resist corrosion, making it a long-lasting fix for your floors for many more years to come. 

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