Slab-on-grade home elevation
Most Houston homes sit on a concrete slab. Here is how we lift the house and the slab together in 1 piece.
Why lift the slab with the house
Separating a house from its slab means cutting through the walls at floor level and rebuilding the floor. Lifting the slab with the house keeps the floors, tile and interior walls intact, so less needs to be rebuilt afterwards.
The lift, step by step
Prepare
Utilities disconnected, plants and flatwork cleared, trenches dug around and under the slab.
Beam
Main and cross steel beams are slid through openings under the slab to carry the whole house.
Lift
Hydraulic jacks under every beam point are linked so the house rises evenly, a little at a time.
Crib
The house is held on timber cribbing at the new height while the foundation is built.
New foundation
Piers, columns or a raised foundation built to the engineer's design and the required flood elevation.
Set and reconnect
The house is lowered onto the new foundation and bolted down. Utilities, stairs and access are completed.
Foundation options under a raised house
| Option | Where it suits |
|---|---|
| Concrete piers or columns | Most common for higher lifts; open space below for parking and storage |
| Masonry or block piers | Moderate lifts with a traditional look |
| Raised perimeter foundation with flood vents | Lower lifts where an enclosed crawlspace look is wanted |
Your engineer and the local floodplain rules decide which option is allowed for your lot.
Questions we get asked
Will my walls and tile crack when the house is lifted?
Lifting with the slab attached and an even jacking system keeps movement small. Some minor cosmetic cracking can happen, and we include the repair plan in your price.
Can a 2-storey slab house be lifted?
Often yes. Weight, size and condition decide the beam layout and cost. We confirm it at the survey.
Do I need to empty the house?
You should remove valuables and fragile items. Heavy furniture can usually stay. We give you a checklist before the lift.
Tell us about your project
Sam or the team will call you back within 1 business day to talk it through and book a site visit.
281-326-9719