Foundation Repair Photo Album: Sinking Floor Repair in Andover, MA

In Andover, MA, the homeowner noticed sloping floors right after moving in. Upon evaluation, our team found that the lally columns were failing to provide adequate support. As seen in the photos, we effectively installed the SmartJack System to stabilize and lift the flooring to its original position. To tackle excessive humidity, we added a SaniDry XP unit, ensuring a healthier, more comfortable environment. Notice how these solutions address both structural and environmental challenges comprehensively.

Failing Lally Columns

The existing lally columns were no longer capable of adequately supporting the structural load of the floors above. Over time, lally columns commonly deteriorate-particularly in basements with elevated humidity-leading to rust, loss of cross‑sectional strength, and reduced load‑bearing capacity. Similarly, floor beams and joists exposed to prolonged moisture are at increased risk of weakening due to wood decay, compromised structural integrity, and potential deformation.

Soil Excavation

Concrete and underlying soil were excavated at the designated SmartJack® installation points to prepare proper footing locations.

Footings with Rebar

A high‑strength concrete mix was poured into the excavated locations and reinforced with steel rebar to create durable, load‑bearing footings. The addition of rebar is critical in this application because it significantly increases the footing's structural performance. Concrete alone handles compressive forces well, but it is comparatively weak under tension. When supporting adjustable steel posts like SmartJacks®, the footing must resist not only vertical loads but also minor lateral, tensile, and shear stresses that occur as the system stabilizes and redistributes structural weight. Rebar strengthens the footing by preventing cracking, increasing load distribution, and enhancing long‑term durability, ensuring a stable base for the support posts.

Leveled Footings

Footings are precisely leveled to ensure a stable and uniform bearing surface. Proper leveling is essential because uneven footings can introduce unwanted stress into the SmartJack® system, reduce load‑carrying efficiency, and lead to differential settling. A level footing ensures that each support post transfers weight evenly, maximizing stability and long‑term structural performance.

SmartJack Base

The SmartJack® base assembly is positioned securely on the prepared footing, after which the adjustable support post is installed and fastened to the base.

SmartJack Secured to Beam

The SmartJack® system is fully adjustable, allowing for precise tuning to deliver the exact level of support needed to stabilize, lift, and re‑level sagging floors. This adjustability ensures that load is transferred correctly and that long‑term structural performance can be maintained or improved over time.

Completed SmartJack Installation

To complete the SmartJack® installation, the support posts are permanently secured in place by encasing their bases in concrete. This creates a stable, immovable connection to the foundation, ensuring consistent load transfer and long‑term structural reliability.

Basement Dehumidifier

The SaniDry™ XP dehumidification system was installed to effectively manage elevated humidity levels in the basement. This is especially beneficial when paired with the SmartJack® system, as controlling moisture helps prevent wood rot, inhibits mold growth, and supports healthier indoor air quality throughout the home.