Severe Crawlspace Damage Was Causing Dangerous Floor Sagging
Jennifer H.’s home in Lonoke, Arkansas suffered from significant crawlspace-related structural issues that resulted in sagging, unlevel floors throughout the house. Multiple past contractors had attempted repairs, but the underlying problems were never properly addressed. The home had two layers of subflooring—the original layer was severely rotted, with OSB installed over it—and the floor joists were in rough condition. A failing full-length main beam, combined with years of uneven settlement the homeowners referred to as the “roller coaster” effect, caused doors to shift, floors to slope, and the structure to become increasingly unstable.
A Full-Length Main Beam Replacement and Precision Lifting Solved the Problem
The solution involved replacing the full-length main beam from beneath the home, a critical advantage because the beam was a flyover design and accessible through a reasonably tall crawlspace. Using the SmartJack® support system, the team stabilized and lifted the structure with precision, achieving up to 3 inches of lift on one side of the home and 2¼ inches on the other. Additional SmartJacks were installed in the beam replacement area to allow controlled movement and fine-tuning. The floors were carefully adjusted to the level that best aligned with the healthier upper subfloor layer, balancing structural correction with the homeowner’s request to minimize cosmetic damage and maintain door functionality.
Proper Crawlspace Methods Ensured Long-Term Structural Integrity
The success of this project depended on using the correct crawlspace repair methods rather than surface-level fixes. Working entirely from underneath preserved the home’s interior while addressing the true structural failures at their source. Despite a minor plumbing incident involving a damaged two-inch pipe, the installation progressed smoothly and delivered excellent stabilization results. The SmartJack system allowed precise control over lift and load distribution, ensuring the home was leveled according to the homeowner’s goals rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all solution. The result was a safer, more stable foundation and a homeowner who was confident the repair would protect their investment for decades to come.
If your home has sagging floors, sticking doors, or crawlspace damage that previous repairs haven’t solved, it’s time for a structural solution. Contact us today for a professional crawlspace inspection and customized stabilization plan designed to permanently protect your home.