If you’ve noticed cracks in your walls, uneven floors, or doors that won’t close properly, consider restumping your home. Restumping, also known as reblocking, involves replacing the wooden or concrete stumps that support your home’s foundation with new stumps to improve its structural stability.
However, restumping is a job that should be taken seriously, and it’s important to understand the process before diving in. This blog post will walk you through what to expect during the restumping process, from the initial assessment to the finished product.
Initial Assessment
The first step in the restumping process is to assess your home’s foundation with a qualified expert. During this assessment, the restumping expert will inspect the existing stumps and check for any signs of damage, such as rotting or termite infestation. They’ll also assess the condition of the soil beneath the foundation to determine if it’s stable enough to support the new stumps. Contact the pros at prorestumpingmelbourne.com once you’re ready to start.
Based on this assessment, the restumping expert will recommend a restumping method that’s best suited for your home’s specific needs. Several restumping methods are available, including traditional stump and base, screw piling, and concrete piling. The chosen method will depend on factors such as the soil type, the age and condition of your home, and your budget.
Choosing the Right Restumping Method
Choosing the right restumping method for your home is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during the restumping process. Let’s take a closer look at the different methods available:
Traditional Stump and Base: This is the most common restumping method and involves removing the old stumps and replacing them with new wooden stumps attached to a concrete base. This method is generally cheaper than other restumping methods but can be labour-intensive and unsuitable for all soil types.
Screw Piling: Screw piling involves using a screw-like device to drill steel piles into the ground until they reach a stable layer of soil. This method is generally more expensive than traditional stump and base restumping, but it’s often more effective at providing stable support and can be completed more quickly.
Concrete Piling: Concrete piling involves drilling holes into the ground and filling them with concrete to create a strong foundation for the new stumps. This method is generally the most expensive but is also the most effective at providing a long-lasting, stable foundation.
The Restumping Process
Once you’ve chosen a restumping method and the restumping expert has obtained the necessary permits, the actual restumping work can begin. Here’s what you can expect during the restumping process:
Excavation: The restumping expert will begin by excavating around the perimeter of your home’s foundation to expose the existing stumps.
Removal of Old Stumps: The old stumps will be removed using hydraulic jacks, which lift the house slightly to allow the old stumps to be removed.
Installation of New Stumps: The new stumps will be installed using the chosen restumping method (e.g. traditional stump and base, screw piling, or concrete piling). The restumping expert will use specialized equipment to ensure the new stumps are placed securely and at the correct height.
Final Checks: Once the new stumps are in place, the restumping expert will ensure they are level, and the home is properly supported. They may also perform other tasks, such as fixing any damage to the floor or ensuring that the doors and windows are correctly aligned.
After the Restumping
Once the restumping work is complete, you can expect to experience several benefits, including improved structural stability, reduced risk of future problems, and potentially increased property value. However, taking care of your new stumps is important to ensure they last as long as possible. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Avoid Excess Moisture: Moisture can cause wooden stumps to rot or steel stumps to corrode. Avoid over-watering plants near the foundation, and make sure that gutters and downspouts are properly installed and working to direct water away from the house.
Check for Signs of Movement or Settling: While restumping should provide a stable foundation for your home, it’s still possible for the soil to shift over time, which can cause the stumps to move or settle. Keep an eye out for any signs of movement, such as cracks in the walls or floors, and address them immediately to prevent further damage.
Schedule Regular Inspections: It’s a good idea to inspect your home’s foundation every few years to check for any signs of damage or movement. This can help you catch problems early and prevent them from becoming more serious (and expensive).
Restumping your home can be a significant investment, but it’s also an important step in ensuring the safety and stability of your home. By understanding what to expect during the restumping process, you can make informed decisions about the restumping method that’s best suited for your home and prepare yourself for the disruption that may occur during the restumping process. With the right restumping expert and a commitment to proper maintenance, your new stumps can provide a strong foundation for your home for many years.
