Guide
House leveling in Dallas-Fort Worth
House leveling means lifting the parts of a home that have dropped and supporting them so they stay put. In North Texas clay, it's one of the most common repairs homeowners need.
Signs your house may need leveling
- Floors that slope enough to notice, or a ball that rolls on its own
- Doors that swing open or closed by themselves, or will not latch
- Cracks that keep returning after you patch them
- Gaps between walls and ceilings, or between brick and window frames
How the process works
Inspection and readings
The contractor maps how far each area has moved.
Plan
They choose the number, location and type of piers or supports.
Install and lift
Piers are installed and the home is raised back toward level in controlled stages.
Final readings and warranty
After readings confirm the result. Keep the warranty and paperwork for resale.
What to ask before hiring
- How many piers, which type, and where?
- Will you provide before and after elevation readings?
- What does the warranty cover, and does it transfer to a buyer?
- Will you check drainage and plumbing as possible causes?
- Will you pull any required permit?
Questions
Is house leveling the same as foundation repair?
People use the terms interchangeably. House leveling usually refers to lifting and supporting the parts of a home that have dropped, which is the core of most foundation repairs.
Will leveling fix the cracks in my walls?
Leveling can close or reduce some cracks, but drywall, brick and trim often still need cosmetic repair afterward. Ask the contractor what to expect for your home.
How long does house leveling take?
Many residential jobs take one to a few days, depending on how many piers are needed and access around the house.
Can a house be leveled perfectly?
Not always. The goal is usually to bring the home back toward level within reasonable tolerances without causing new damage. Ask for before and after elevation readings.