Rusted Lally Columns
During a home inspection, several deteriorated and corroded lally columns were identified as concerns impacting the structural support of the floor system. To further evaluate the conditions, one of our Design Specialists conducted a comprehensive basement inspection and assessed the existing supports. Based on our findings, we recommended the installation of our SmartJack® Support System to provide permanent stabilization and supplemental support for the floor framing. This solution was designed to address the structural concerns, improve floor performance, and help facilitate a smoother real estate transaction by resolving issues noted during the inspection process.
Concrete Removal for Footings
To prepare for the installation of the SmartJack® Support System, sections of the existing concrete slab were carefully excavated and removed to allow for the construction of engineered footings. These footings provide a stable, load-bearing foundation that enables the SmartJack system to effectively transfer structural loads to competent soil, ensuring long-term floor stabilization and support.
SmartJack Base
The SmartJack® base assembly was carefully positioned and leveled below grade on a prepared footing to establish a stable foundation for the support post. This ensures proper load transfer from the floor system to the footing below, providing long-term structural stability and maximizing the performance of the SmartJack system.
Floor Raising
Temporary support posts were strategically used to lift the main beam at its intended elevation, relieving the load from the deteriorated lally columns and allowing for their safe removal. Once the compromised columns were removed, the SmartJack® Support System was installed beneath the beam. Each SmartJack was then carefully adjusted to the precise height and load-bearing capacity required, ensuring proper structural support, improved floor stability, and long-term performance of the floor system.
Floor Stabilization
After all SmartJack® supports had been installed and adjusted to the required elevation, the temporary support posts were removed, transferring the structural load entirely to the new support system. The SmartJack bases were then encased in concrete to permanently secure them within the foundation floor. This process creates a solid, stable connection between the support system and the underlying footing, ensuring reliable load transfer and long-term structural performance.
