My kitchen is an addition, and due to some plumbing issues we've now resolved, the floor is sagging quite a bit. My 17-year-old child has been learning building trades and believes they know how to fix it. The plan is to go under the house, use specialty jacks to lift it back up, and brace the joists. I'm torn about letting them take this on. I'm worried about safety and the potential for causing more damage, but I also wonder if these concerns are just typical parental worry. What do you all think?
4 Answers
As someone with 20 years in the general contracting business, I would say it’s definitely a DIY project, but I wouldn’t trust a 17-year-old to handle structural work alone. They might not have the experience needed for such critical tasks.
Jacking and bracing might not be super tough, but I started more serious repairs later in life. Just think about whether your kid really has the knowledge and experience for this type of work. You know them best!
I feel you on this one! It could really go either way. I’d be more comfortable having my son assist a licensed contractor. That way he gets to learn while also ensuring the job is done right.
I wouldn’t advise doing structural repairs as a DIY project. It's a risky job. Maybe have your son work under a mentor’s supervision? That way he can learn while staying safe.