The Problem: Weakened Floor Joists and Sagging Floors
Project Location: Chapel Hill, NC
Service Provided: Foundation Repair & Structural Wood Reinforcement
During our inspection of a crawl space in Chapel Hill, we found significant structural damage caused by long-term moisture issues. The structural framing directly under the kitchen had weakened, causing the heavy floor above to sag.
The specific structural issues included:
Compromised Floor Joists: The excessive moisture caused the wood under the kitchen to weaken. While the joists were not completely destroyed, they had lost the rigidity required to hold the weight of the kitchen cabinets and appliances.
Failing Support Jacks: The previous homeowner attempted to fix the sagging floors by installing temporary support jacks. However, these jacks were placed on wooden blocks resting directly on the dirt. This setup provided no actual structural stability and attracted termites.
Rotted Band Joist: A 12-foot section of the main outer frame (the band joist) was severely rotted and contributing to the lack of support.
The Solution: Structural Reinforcement via Sistering
To restore the strength of the kitchen floor, we implemented a structural reinforcement plan that focused on preserving the salvageable wood while adding high-strength support.
Here is how we reinforced the floor system:
Joist Sistering: We reinforced the floor framing under the kitchen by “sistering” 9 separate floor joists. We measured the damaged sections and attached new, pressure-treated timber directly alongside the weakened joists. We bolted them together to double the strength of the framing.
Targeted Replacement: Because the 12-foot section of the band joist was too damaged to save, we completely removed it and replaced it with sound, pressure-treated lumber to secure the perimeter.
Support Removal: We removed the improper temporary support jacks and the wooden blocks from the dirt, eliminating the structural liability.
The Result: A Strong, Stable Floor System
By sistering the 9 floor joists with new, pressure-treated timber, we successfully restored the load-bearing capacity of the floor framing. The weight of the kitchen is now safely supported by the reinforced joists. The home is structurally sound, and the floor above is flat and stable.
Stop Your Floors From Sinking
5-Star Rated Service
Don’t just take our word for it. With 110+ five-star reviews on Google, we are Central North Carolina’s most trusted foundation repair team. See why your neighbors choose Elite for their toughest structural repairs.
Schedule Your Free Inspection
Ironclad Protection
We build solutions that last, and we back them up. Our structural repairs come with industry-leading, transferable warranties, ensuring your home’s value is protected for years to come.
GET IN TOUCH WITH US
Contact Us
NORTH CAROLINA SERVICE AREAS
EASY FINANCE OPTIONS:
1Loans provided by EnerBank USA, Member FDIC, (1245 Brickyard Rd., Suite 600, Salt Lake City, UT 84106) on approved credit, for a limited time. Repayment terms vary from 24 to 132 months. Interest waived if repaid in 365 days. 17.99% fixed APR, effective as of November 1, 2020, subject to change. Interest starts accruing when the loan closes.
2Loans provided by EnerBank USA, Member FDIC, (1245 Brickyard Rd., Suite 600, Salt Lake City, UT 84106) on approved credit, for a limited time. Repayment term is 60 months. 4.99% fixed APR. Minimum loan amounts apply. The first monthly payment will be due 30 days after the loan closes.