Expert: Rikki Nyman - 6/13/2011

Question
Our house was built in 1919.  We have cantilevered sections in the middle of the house on each side.  On the one side the floor slopes a considerable amount to one corner.  How do we go about fixing this?  Do we have to jack it up from the inside from the basement or outside directly underneath the extended cantilever portion?  If we have to jact it up from the exterior, do we need to pour a concrete pier below frost line for the jack?

Answer
You'll need to do a little calling around to locate a licensed contractor in your area to give you more information specific to your home. Anything that requires foundation work should always be examined by a competent expert. In some cases, a structural engineer might need to be consulted. It is almost always going to save you money to get a professional opinion and estimates from several licensed and insured professionals.

Because it's cantilevered, it may be a matter of replacing or reinforcing joists. Check with someone who knows how old houses are put together and make sure they like old houses. Many contractors give opinions without consideration of the value of vintage structures.

Good luck with your project.
Best regards,
Rikki Nyman
www.antiquehomestyle.com