I'm looking to lift my house by about 0.5 to 1 inch because it's settled over time. My house was built in the 1800s on a solid granite foundation, so I'm not touching that part. However, there's an addition (10' x 6') that has settled and isn't properly supported.
1) Is this something I should hire a professional for, and could it really cost upwards of $10k?
2) Will lifting it damage the roof since it's close to the main part of the house, which I don't intend to raise?
3 Answers
I think hiring a professional is a wise choice if you're not entirely confident with structural work, especially since you mentioned it's a settled addition. If you're really looking at a significant lift, you might be staring down a bill of around $10k, especially considering liability and safety precautions. Just make sure to get at least three quotes to see what's reasonable in your area!
From what I've done in similar situations, be careful with that roofline. You don't want to create problems where the addition connects to the main part of the house. If it's not sagging, then you might be in the clear for lifting. But I would still suggest getting a few pros to take a look if you're not feeling super confident about it.
Honestly, based on what you've shared, it sounds like a job you could tackle yourself if you're up for it! Just make sure to take it slow; there's no rush in getting it all done at once. You can use screw jacks and do little adjustments every few days to let the materials settle appropriately. Also, be aware that some doors and windows might need adjustments after you lift it, especially if they were installed after any settling occurred. But if you're unsure about the process or lack the right equipment, hiring a pro might be your best bet, even if it costs a chunk of change.