Crawlspace Repair Restored Sagging Floors and Structural Stability in Lonoke, AR
Crawlspace Failure Was the Root Cause of Unlevel Floors
A homeowner in Lonoke, AR was dealing with severe sagging and unlevel floors caused by long-term crawlspace structural failure. Years of improper repairs by multiple contractors left the home with rotted subflooring, compromised floor joists, and a failing main beam. As the structure continued to settle unevenly, doors stopped opening properly and the floors developed what the homeowners described as a “roller coaster” effect. A comprehensive crawlspace repair and floor stabilization plan was required to correct the problem at its source and prevent further damage.
Identifying the Real Problem: Rotted Subfloor and a Failing Main Beam
During the crawlspace inspection, it became clear that the home had two layers of subflooring. The original subfloor was severely rotted, with OSB installed over it in a previous attempt to mask the problem rather than fix it. The floor joists were in rough condition, and the full-length main beam had deteriorated to the point that replacement was necessary. Because the beam was a flyover design and the crawlspace had sufficient height, the repairs could be performed entirely from underneath the home. The crawlspace had also been previously encapsulated, which helped provide cleaner access to the structural components.
Designing a Crawlspace Repair Plan That Prioritized Stability and Control
The primary goal of the repair was to save the existing floors while restoring proper structural support. Rather than forcing the home to an arbitrary level, the plan focused on leveling the structure in a way that aligned with the best-conditioned upper layer of subfloor. This approach reduced the risk of cosmetic damage while still correcting the dangerous sagging. The homeowners were fully involved in the planning process and clearly communicated their priorities, including floor level, door operation, and long-term stability.
Main Beam Replacement and SmartJack® Installation
The repair solution included a full-length main beam replacement from beneath the home, combined with the installation of the SmartJack® support system. SmartJacks provided the precision needed to lift and stabilize the structure in a controlled manner. One side of the home received approximately 3 inches of lift, while the opposite side received about 2¼ inches. Additional SmartJacks were installed in the main beam replacement area to allow fine-tuning and targeted support where the structure needed it most. This approach allowed the team to adjust the home gradually and safely.
Precision Floor Leveling Without Forcing Cosmetic Damage
As the structure was lifted, the team carefully monitored how the floors, doors, and framing responded. The front door, which had previously stopped opening properly, was addressed through controlled leveling rather than aggressive overcorrection. The homeowner ultimately chose to prioritize overall floor level and long-term performance, even if that meant replacing a door later. By lowering the home to a specific final position after lifting, the team achieved the exact balance the customer wanted between function, appearance, and structural integrity.
Why Proper Crawlspace Repair Methods Matter
This project demonstrated why true crawlspace repair must address structural failures directly, not just surface symptoms. Installing supports without correcting a failing main beam or rotted subfloor would have led to continued movement and future damage. The SmartJack system allowed precise load transfer to stable soil, while the beam replacement restored the home’s primary structural support. Completing the work from underneath preserved the interior of the home and minimized disruption during a project that spanned the holiday season.
A Stable Home and a Confident Homeowner
Despite a minor plumbing issue encountered during installation, the project progressed smoothly and delivered excellent stabilization results. By the time the work was complete, the floors were level to the homeowner’s specifications, the structure was properly supported, and the ongoing movement that had plagued the home for years was finally resolved. What started as a stressful situation became a meaningful investment in the home’s safety, comfort, and long-term value.
Get a Professional Crawlspace Inspection Before the Damage Gets Worse
If your home has sagging floors, unlevel surfaces, or crawlspace damage that previous repairs haven’t fixed, the problem may be deeper than you think. Schedule a professional crawlspace inspection today to find out whether structural supports, beam replacement, or floor stabilization can permanently protect