Resolving Structural Issues with SmartJack® Installation in Chattanooga, TN

Challenge

A homeowner in Chattanooga, Tennessee experienced persistent squeaking and bouncing in the hallway floor, undermining the comfort and safety of the living space. Seeking a solution, they initially hired a contractor who installed multiple jacks and beams throughout the crawlspace. Unfortunately, these supports were placed incorrectly, failing to address the underlying issues and leaving the floor instability unresolved.

Upon closer examination, it was evident that two critical floor joists--horizontal structural element designed to support the weight of the floor-- lacked proper support from a girder, the primary beam responsible for bearing the load of these joists. This oversight likely contributed to the floor's instability, as unsupported joists can lead to sagging, squeaking, and an overall lack of structural integrity. 

Recognizing the need for a specialized approach, the homeowner contacted Master Services for a comprehensive assessment and effective solution to restore the hallway floor's stability.

Solution

Master Services conducted a thorough inspection of the crawl space and identified the unsupported joists as the cause of the hallway's squeaking and bouncing. To address this issue, the team implemented the SmartJack® Crawl Space Stabilizer system, a high-capacity, adjustable steel support designed to stabilize and lift sagging floor joists and beams. 
The installation process involved several key steps:

1. Site preparation: The team excavated small areas in the crawl space to create stable bases for the SmartJack® supports. These bases were filled with engineered fill to ensure a solid foundation capable of bearing significant loads. 
2. SmartJack® placement. High-capacity, adjustable steel SmartJack® posts were strategically positioned beneath the unsupported joists. The placement was carefully calculated to provide optimal support where it was most needed, addressing the specific areas contributing to the floor's instability. 
3. Adjustment and stabilization: The SmartJack® posts were precisely adjusted to lift the floor back to its original position. This process effectively eliminated the squeaks and bounce, restoring stability and enhancing the overall structural integrity of the hallway floor. 

Following the SmartJack® installation, the homeowner experienced a significant improvement in the hallway floor's stability. The squeaking and bouncing were completely eliminated, providing a solid and secure walking surface. This restoration of structural integrity enhanced the overall safety and comfort of the home, offering the homeowner peace of mind. Master Services' expertise in diagnosing and addressing structural issues ensured a successful outcome for this project. By implementing the SmartJack® system, the team provided a durable and effective solution tailored to the homeowner's specific needs.