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Problem...but don't know who to call!!

Posted: Mon Feb 02, 2009 3:12 pm
by Dee Krupp
At some point an addition to the kitchen was added to our old house. Naturally, short cuts were taken and when the ground is dry that addition (because there isn't enough support) sinks (or something) into the ground and we can't even lock our door properly. We need to get this fixed, but don't know what type of contractor to call.....any ideas?

All we really know is we don't have problems when the ground is wet, and my husband has had to jack up the addition to help alleviate the problem, but we really don't know where to start with getting someone out to permanently fix the problem.

Posted: Mon Feb 02, 2009 5:07 pm
by Will Brown
It certainly sounds like a strange situation. but my guess would be that there is some problem with the foundation, as a sound foundation should support the structure whether the yard is wet or dry.

I think the contractors who do foundation construction or repair usually work to a plan, and do not themselves have the training to draw up a satisfactory plan, other than perhaps to overbuild. In any event, if there is a problem with the foundation, remediation would be a structural problem and almost certainly would require a permit, and the city would not issue a permit without plans approved by a qualified expert. My guess would be that an architect would be qualified to analyze the situation and draw up the plan, or at least to recommend the type of engineer qualified to do that. Of course, not all architects do that type of work, or are willing to do what, one hopes, will be a relatively minor job.

My suggestion would be to call the city building department, find which inspector is most familiar with such work, and ask that he recommend a professional to you. They are not supposed to give recommendations, but my experience is that they can give you their opinion on what type of professional you need, and a list of which of those has experience in working in Lakewood. Once you find a professional, he will be able to draw up the plans and get them approved, and recommend a contractor to do the work. The architect should also, for a fee, of course, be willing to actually supervise the project.

I've had, generally, good service from the building department. When my garage threatened to collapse, they gave me a list of contractors who were experienced in working in Lakewood, and the one I picked did a good job. The inspector was also very helpful in checking some underground wiring I was doing myself for the new garage.

Posted: Mon Feb 02, 2009 5:14 pm
by Stan Austin
Dee, It's a footer problem. This is an expensive problem to correct and living with your current situation should be considered as an option.
Stan Austin

Posted: Mon Feb 02, 2009 9:38 pm
by Dee Krupp
Wow Will...that sounds pretty complicated!!

Stan...what's a footer problem? I don't know what that means.

Posted: Mon Feb 02, 2009 9:54 pm
by Dee Krupp
Dee Krupp wrote:Stan...what's a footer problem? I don't know what that means.


Never mind....I googled it and found the answer. That does sound like the problem. I certainly hope it's not outrageously expensive to repair.

Posted: Sun Mar 01, 2009 12:21 am
by Jessica Bell
If you still have this problem, my husband is a contractor. He may be able to help you. Hes prices a lower then average.


House 911
Rich Bell
440-341-5954

Posted: Sun Mar 01, 2009 6:16 pm
by Dee Krupp
Jessica Bell wrote:If you still have this problem, my husband is a contractor. He may be able to help you. Hes prices a lower then average.


House 911
Rich Bell
440-341-5954


Thanks Jessica. I will definitely call. I was trying to get a head start on who to call, so I'm ready in the spring. I would appreciate it if you could run my problem through him to see if he thinks that is something he can help with.

Posted: Sun Mar 01, 2009 6:23 pm
by Jessica Bell
Your welcome, I will talk to him. I wish you luck.