What You Need To Know About Jacking and Shoring
One of the services we offer at Eastman Building Movers is jacking and shoring for our Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Massachusetts clients.Jacking and shoring are critical processes used in construction, particularly during the repair, renovation, or strengthening of buildings.
We often are asked to explain this process and this month we are sharing information about our procedures and the equipment we use.
Jacking
Jacking involves using mechanical devices called jacks to lift or move heavy objects. This process is commonly used to elevate parts of a structure to make repairs or adjustments. Here are the general steps involved in jacking:
Assessment: Determine the weight and structural integrity of the buildingto be lifted. This step involves engineering calculations and safety assessments.
Preparation: Clear the area around the structure and set up safety barriers.
Placement of Jacks: Position the jacks at strategic points to ensure an even distribution of weight. This usually involves placing jacks under load-bearing points.
Lifting: Slowly and carefully operate the jacks to lift the structure. This is usually done incrementally to avoid causing structural damage.
Securing the Lifted Structure: Once the structure is at the desired height, secure it in place using temporary supports or shoring.
Shoring
Shoring is the process of providing temporary support to a structure to prevent collapse while it is being repaired or altered. Shoring is often used in conjunction with jacking. Here are the general steps involved in shoring:
Assessment: Evaluate the structure to determine where support is needed. This involves a thorough inspection and structural analysis.
Designing the Shoring System: Based on the assessment, engineers design a shoring system that will provide adequate support. This may include shores (props), beams, and other structural elements.
Preparation: Gather materials and equipment, and clear the area where the shoring will be installed.
Installation: Place shores and other supports in the designated locations. This may involve erecting scaffolding, installing beams, or placing props against walls or under floors.
Monitoring: Continuously monitor the shored structure to ensure stability. Make adjustments as necessary to maintain safety.
Removal: Once the repairs or adjustments are complete, carefully remove the shoring materials. This is usually done only after ensuring that the structure is stable and can support itself.
Safety Considerations
Proper Training: Only trained and qualified personnel like should perform jacking and shoring to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Equipment Inspection: Regularly inspect jacks and shoring materials for wear and damage.
Communication: Maintain clear communication among team members to coordinate efforts and respond to any issues quickly.
Emergency Plans: Have emergency plans in place in case of unforeseen problems or failures.
Both jacking and shoring are essential techniques in construction and require careful planning, execution, and monitoring to ensure the safety and success of the project.
Reattaching The House
Reattaching a house to its foundation is a complex and labor-intensive task that should only be undertaken by professionals like our team here at Eastman Building Movers with experience in structural work. Proper execution of these steps ensures the stability and safety of the house for years to come.
Here's an overview of the steps typically involved:
Assessment and Planning:
Inspection: A structural engineer or a qualified contractor inspects the house and the foundation to assess the damage and determine the best approach for reattachment.
Permits and Approvals: Obtain any necessary permits and approvals from local authorities before starting the work.
Preparation:
Clear the Area: Remove any obstacles around the house that might impede the work.
Utility Disconnection: Ensure that all utilities (water, gas, electricity) are safely disconnected to prevent accidents during the process.
Foundation Repair or Replacement:
Repair: If the existing foundation is salvageable, repair any cracks or damages. This might involve reinforcing the foundation with new concrete, steel beams, or other materials.
Replacement: In more severe cases, a new foundation might be constructed. This involves digging out the old foundation and pouring a new one.
Reattaching the House:
Lowering the House: Once the foundation is ready, the house is slowly and carefully lowered back onto it using the hydraulic jacks.
Alignment: Ensuring the house is perfectly aligned with the foundation is crucial. Adjustments are made as needed to achieve a proper fit.
Anchoring and Securing:
Bolting: The house is anchored to the foundation using bolts or other fasteners to ensure it is securely attached.
Sealing: Gaps between the house and the foundation are sealed to prevent water infiltration and air leaks.
Reconnect Utilities and Final Inspection:
Reconnect Utilities: Safely reconnect all utilities to the house.
Inspection: A final inspection by a structural engineer or a building inspector ensures that the house is securely attached and meets all safety standards.
Cleanup and Restoration:
Remove Equipment: All jacks, shores, and other equipment are removed from the site.
Site Cleanup: Any debris from the process is cleared away.
Restoration: Any landscaping or exterior features disrupted during the process are restored.
Eastman Building Movers is known for our commitment to customer satisfaction and meticulous planning, which is crucial for successful building relocations. Whether it's moving a historic home, relocating a commercial structure, or lifting a building for foundation repairs, we are well-equipped to handle the unique challenges presented by each location we serve.
Contact us for a free quote and learn more about our services.