Floods can turn your life upside down in an instant. One moment, everything seems fine, and the next, you’re dealing with knee-deep water, ruined possessions, and a house that might be on the verge of collapsing. It’s a scary and stressful time.
When floodwaters invade your home, they don’t just ruin your furniture and personal belongings. They also compromise the very structure of your house. Floodwaters can erode the soil around your home, leading to shifting and settling. This is where house stumping comes into play.
House stumping, also known as re-stumping or underpinning, involves replacing or repairing the stumps or supports that your house sits on. If these stumps are damaged, it can lead to uneven floors, cracks in the walls, and doors and windows that just won’t close properly. After a flood, getting your house re-stumped is crucial to ensure it remains safe and stable.
Tips to get the house Stumping Services
It’s often necessary restumping your home after a flood to prevent further damage. Floodwaters can weaken or even wash away the stumps your house rests on. If you notice any signs of damage, like your floors starting to slope or new cracks appearing in your walls, it indicates that your house needs re-stumping.
Now, you might be wondering how to go about this process. It sounds complicated. But don’t worry; I have three essential tips to help you get the best house-stumping services.
House Stumping Company
- The first and most important step is to find a reputable house-stumping company. Not all companies are created equal, and you want the best when it comes to your home’s foundation.
- Start by looking up companies online and reading reviews. Check out their websites and see what services they offer. Look for companies specializing in post-flood house stumping; they will have the necessary experience.
Understand the Process
Knowing what to expect can make the whole experience less stressful. Here’s a brief rundown of the house stumping process:
- The company will inspect your home to assess the damage and determine which stumps need replacing or repairing.
- They will then prepare the site. This might involve clearing away debris and ensuring the area is safe for workers.
- Next, they will carefully lift your house off the damaged stumps. This is done using hydraulic jacks and other specialized equipment.
- The old stumps are removed and replaced with new, more durable ones. The stumps’ materials can vary, but concrete and steel are common choices because of their strength and durability.
- The house is carefully lowered back onto the new stumps and secured.
Benefits of house stumping services after a flood
- Stumping strengthens the house’s foundation, making it less likely to collapse or be damaged.
- By lifting the house, stumping helps prevent more flood damage from happening later on.
- Stumping improves drainage around the house, which stops water from pooling and causing problems like mold.
- Elevating the house improves airflow, making living more comfortable and reducing the risk of mold.
- Stumping can increase the property’s value because it’s safer and less prone to flooding, which is attractive to buyers.