Introduction: Recognizing a Serious Structural Issue
Uneven or sagging floors in your home are more than just a cosmetic issue โ theyโre often a sign of structural problems. In older New Hampshire homes, particularly in towns like Exeter, Kingston, Hampton, Dover, Stratham, Portsmouth, and Brentwood, factors such as rotting sill beams, failing lally columns, foundation settlement, or joist damage can lead to floors that tilt, sag, or bounce under weight.
Ignoring uneven floors can result in increasing damage, safety hazards, and costly repairs.
Common Causes of Uneven or Sagging Floors
- Rotting Sill Beams or Joists
- Moisture and wood rot can weaken structural support, causing floors to sag.
- Failing Lally Columns or Posts
- Steel or wooden posts supporting beams may corrode, bend, or lose contact with footings.
- Foundation Settlement or Shifting Soils
- Frost heaves, seasonal soil movement, or old stone foundations can cause the home to settle unevenly.
- Water Damage or Crawlspace Issues
- Moisture from basements or crawlspaces can weaken joists, beams, or subflooring.
Signs You Need Professional Intervention
- Floors that feel soft or bouncy
- Noticeable tilt or slope across a room
- Cracks in walls, ceilings, or around windows and doors
- Doors or windows that stick or fail to close properly
- Sudden increase in sagging over time
Even minor sagging should be evaluated by a professional, because what appears small now can escalate quickly.
Professional Solutions
- Lally Column or Beam Support Installation
- Adding or replacing columns and beams can provide immediate stabilization.
- Sill Beam or Joist Replacement
- Rotting or damaged wood is replaced to restore structural integrity.
- Foundation Stabilization
- Solutions such as helical piers or push piers can correct settling or shifting foundations.
- Crawlspace or Basement Repairs
- Moisture control, waterproofing, and crawlspace encapsulation can prevent further damage to joists and subflooring.
Why DIY Solutions Are Risky
- Uneven or sagging floors are symptomatic of serious structural problems.
- Temporary fixes, like shimming or patching, do not address the root cause.
- Professional intervention ensures long-term stability, safety, and compliance with building codes.
Closing / Call to Action
Uneven or sagging floors are a red flag for serious structural issues in your home. Early professional evaluation can prevent costly damage and ensure your home remains safe and stable.
At 603 Basement Solutions in East Kingston, NH, we specialize in structural repairs, lally column and sill beam replacement, and foundation stabilization for homes in Exeter, Kingston, Hampton, Dover, Stratham, Portsmouth, Plaistow, Seabrook, Brentwood, and Haverhill (MA).
๐ Contact us today for a professional assessment and custom repair plan to restore your floors and protect your home.
