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How Floor Joists Support Your Home’s Foundation

failing floor joists and supports

Have you noticed squeaky floors or other problematic signs around your home? Basements and crawl spaces require durable floor joist systems for support. These structures uphold your flooring, furniture, and everything else above the foundation’s underground area.

This page explores floor joists, common issues that cause damage, and the repair methods that stop the squeaks for good.

What Is a Floor Joist? 

crawl space with wooden floor joists

Floor joists are horizontal framing supports essential to your home’s structural integrity. They span between beams or load-bearing walls to support the subfloor and the floor above. Properly sized and spaced floor joists create a robust and stable platform that distributes weight evenly throughout the home’s structure.

Floor Joist Types

Floor joists are crucial structural components that support your floor system. Choosing the right type depends on several factors, inluding span requirements, budget, and desired floor characteristics. Here are the three common floor joist types used in residential construction:

  • Solid Lumber Joists: These are a traditional option with span capabilities depending on the size and lumber grade.
  • I-Joists: These contain solid wood flanges and a web of oriented strand board (OSB) or plywood. They are durable and typically span longer distances than solid lumber joists of similar size; however, they offer minimal flex comparable to solid lumber.
  • Open-Web Floor Trusses: Made from dimensional lumber (like 2x4s) with diagonal webbing and metal connector plates, these offer utility accessibility and longer spans than solid lumber joists. Though they flex more than I-joists, proper engineering and installation can reduce this to acceptable levels.

Contact a foundation repair expert to determine the most suitable floor joist type for your home and to ensure proper installation according to local building codes.

Signs of Failing Floor Joists 

Floor joists are susceptible to damage that can lead to significant structural problems. Signs of floor joist damage include:

DIY floor joist installation and repair are not recommended. Due to their technical nature, some joist types require a professional. If your joists develop problems, contact a foundation repair expert like JES Foundation Repair for a free inspection.

What Causes Floor Joist Damage?

Floor joist damage can be caused by several factors, including:

overspanned crawl space floor joist
  • Poor Design: Poorly designed and installed joists, using too few joists, over-spanning, and improper spacing cause insufficient load support, weakness, and sagging.
  • Weight: Joists have a weight limit. Adding extra weight during renovations can crack joists, affecting your home’s stability.
  • Moisture and Humidity: Excess moisture leads to wood decay, a common cause of floor joist failure.

Contact a crawl space repair specialist at the first sign of floor joist damage to prevent further damage and costly repairs.

How JES Foundation Repair Addresses Floor Joists

JES Foundation Repair addresses crawl space floor joists by first targeting the underlying problem: moisture. We install the following crawl space encapsulation methods:

Contact JES Foundation Repair for Floor Joist Repair

two JES work trucks and group of crew members

Crawl space support jacks, like our IntelliJack™ crawl space jacks, are essential for reinforcing and stabilizing your home’s foundation. For peace of mind and a stable foundation, contact JES Foundation Repair for a free inspection and expert recommendations tailored to your home’s needs.

Crawl Space FAQs

Costs vary based on the condition of the crawl space and the scope of the installation. JES Foundation Repair values your budget and safety, offering free inspections, clear estimates, and flexible financing options.

JES Foundation Repair installs crawl space support jacks in just 1-2 days. We’ve been the trusted crawl space repair experts near you, serving Virginia, Maryland, DC, and the Outer Banks since 1993.

If your floor joists are sagging, get started by scheduling a FREE inspection from JES today!

Crawl space jacks being adjusted in a crawl space

Do You Need Crawl Space Jacks?

What Are Crawl Space Jacks?

Crawl space jacks address the common problems of sagging and uneven floors. 

Our IntelliJack™ crawl space jacks are custom-engineered steel piles that support sagging floors and fortify the complete structure of your home for decades.

Benefits

  • Quick Installation
  • Industry Certified
  • Exceptional Load Capacity
  • Reduced Floor Vibration
  • Prevents Further Damage
  • Customized for Your Home
Crawl space post installation complete.

FAQs

The duration depends on the damage extent and crawl space dimensions but generally it is completed within a couple of days. JES Foundation Repair ensures a quick and efficient service, with minimal disruption.

Costs vary based on the condition of the crawl space and the scope of the installation. JES Foundation Repair values your budget and safety, offering free inspections, clear estimates, and flexible financing options.

Absolutely. Our IntelliJack™ system accommodates post-installation adjustments. Our team is fully equipped to manage these adjustments safely and effectively, backed by our annual maintenance service.

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The duration depends on the damage extent and crawl space dimensions but generally it is completed within a couple of days. JES Foundation Repair ensures a quick and efficient service, with minimal disruption.

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Accokeek MD

Over time, your home will experience wear and tear. Proper maintenance and repair help ensure your house stands the test of time. Our team in Accokeek MD provides comprehensive foundation, crawl space and basement inspections at no charge. Call JES today at 757.301.4820 for your free foundation inspection and written estimate!

Annapolis MD

Is your home’s condition deteriorating due to a wet or moldy basement? Have you noticed cracks or other signs of structural damage on your home’s exterior? Do you notice uneven sidewalks, a sinking, cracked driveway, or a sunken concrete slab stoop? We are ready to help! Let our professionals conduct a detailed inspection of your […]

Baltimore, MD

Nestled along Maryland’s Patapsco River, Baltimore experiences humid summers and snowy winters. Its consistent rainfall can erode foundations over time. Fortunately, JES is equipped with superior tools and expertise to repair and protect against these issues.

Beltsville MD

Cracked bricks or drywall, bowing walls and buckling floors are symptoms of foundation problems. Before the damage gets worse, you should contact a professional in Beltsville MD to advise you on the best course of action for your home. JES can help! We’ve been keeping homeowners in Maryland safe for over 20 years! Call us […]

Bethesda MD

Award-Winning Solutions in Bethesda JES Foundation Repair (JES), a Groundworks Company, specializes in helping homeowners with their foundation repair, basement waterproofing, crawl space encapsulation, and concrete needs. Our top priority is providing high-quality home repair solutions and personalized service across Virginia and Maryland. With fully trained technicians, industry-leading products, and nationally backed warranties, JES is […]

Bowie MD

We serve homeowners in Bowie MD and all throughout Prince George County. Our team is equipped with the expertise you need to solve your foundation, crawl space moisture control or basement waterproofing problem. Take steps to preserve your home and protect your family. Call us today.

Capitol Heights MD

Homeowners in Capitol Heights MD who need foundation, crawl space moisture control or basement waterproofing services can depend on us. Our repair experts are committed to helping you keep your home’s foundation in the best possible location. Contact us today to schedule your free inspection and estimate.

Chevy Chase MD

Whether your home sits on a slab foundation or a pier foundation, our inspectors in Chevy Chase MD will recommend the best solution for a permanent fix. Stability is an essential consideration when it comes to your home’s foundation. Moisture and weather conditions introduce changes in soil content and set the stage for your house […]

Clarksville MD

Clarksville MD – structural problems are not the type of project you want to tackle on your own. Though do-it-yourself foundation repair may seem appealing, a professional with specialized knowledge, skills and equipment is better prepared to successfully handle a job of this magnitude.

Clinton MD

Our foundation repair team in Clinton MD delivers the results you need. Your home should be a sanctuary. Structural issues and moisture problems rob you of your peace of mind. Homeowners need reassurance of their property’s structural stability. We are the foundation, crawl space and basement waterproofing experts in Clinton MD. Contact us to schedule […]

Columbia MD

If your home is suffering from foundation problems, our repair specialists will provide a permanent solution. Cracks in bricks, inoperable doors and windows, uneven floors and bowing walls are not only unsightly, but they decrease your home’s value. Our professionals in Columbia MD conduct inspections and offer estimates at no charge.

Crofton MD

The structural integrity of your home is central to its overall comfort and value. Cracks in your foundation walls or a damp, soggy crawl space can threaten your home’s stability. Our team of inspectors in Crofton Maryland are equipped with the experience needed to fix your basement, wet crawl space, and foundation problem. We will […]

Crownsville MD

We fix cracked foundations, damp crawl spaces and wet basements. Since these types of issues gradually get worse over time, failing to remedy them now can mean costly repairs in the future. If you own a home in Crownsville MD, we can help you restore and maintain its condition.

Davidsonville MD

Looking for foundation repair, crawl space repair or basement waterproofing services in Davidsonville, Maryland? You’ve come to the right place. Our ability to pinpoint a solution for your repair needs is unrivaled. We specialize in foundation and structural repair, crawl space moisture management, basement waterproofing, and concrete lifting and leveling services. Free inspections and written […]

Ellicott City MD

Homeowners in Ellicott City MD know JES as the company they can trust for foundation, crawl space and basement repair services. From structural damage to moisture problems, we are the experts in Howard County. Our inspectors will conduct a thorough assessment of your home’s foundation, crawl space and basement at no charge.

Frederick, MD

Maintaining your home’s structural integrity is central to its overall value and comfort. Our team in Frederick has the expertise you need to permanently fix your foundation, crawl space, or basement problem – and we also offer concrete lifting and leveling services. Take advantage of our complimentary property inspection, where we will thoroughly assess your […]

Gaithersburg MD

A structure is only as strong as its foundation. Over time, weather conditions can have an adverse effect on your house. Changes in the soil beneath your home can lead to foundation settlement. When structural problems arise, homeowners in Gaithersburg MD can trust us to deliver the repair services they need. Call JES today at […]

Glen Burnie MD

When homeowners in Glen Burnie MD need foundation repair, crawl space repair or basement waterproofing services, they depend on the best. Our experts are trained to identify and remedy your most challenging home repair problems. We are committed to helping you maintain your home’s value. Call JES today at 757.301.4820 for your free foundation inspection and written […]

Glenelg MD

We fix cracked foundations, damp crawl spaces and wet basements. Since these types of issues gradually get worse over time, failing to remedy them now can mean costly repairs in the future. If you own a home in Glenelg MD, we can help you restore and maintain its condition. For your free professional foundation assessment […]

Glenwood MD

There’s a lot to consider when selecting a foundation repair company. Because your home is your biggest investment, you should entrust it to the experts. With over 25 years in the business, we are the pros homeowners in Glenwood MD rely on for structural repairs. Call JES today at 757.301.4820 for your free professional foundation […]

Mayo MD

Water damage and structural problems can hurt your home’s value. If you have foundation, crawl space or basement repair needs, our professional inspectors are just a phone call away. We are licensed to serve homeowners in Mayo MD. Schedule your appointment today, and we’ll gladly inspect your home and provide an estimate for any necessary […]

Montgomery Village MD

Drywall cracks, stuck doors and windows, uneven floors, bowed walls and cracked bricks are all symptoms of foundation problems. When it comes to structural issues, quick fixes won’t do. Our repair professionals in Montgomery Village MD will perform a free inspection and identify any problem areas. For a free professional foundation, basement, or crawl space […]

Oxon Hill MD

Oxon Hill MD homeowners and residents experience severe summer heat and extreme winter conditions. Such extreme weather may cause issues with your home’s foundation, basement, or crawl space. That’s why it’s important to know your local, trusted experts, JES, can help! We provide foundation repair, crawl space repair, concrete lifting and leveling, and basement waterproofing […]

Potomac MD

JES is the local leader for foundation repair, crawl space moisture control, concrete lifting and leveling, and basement waterproofing in Potomac MD. If you have concerns about your home’s condition, we’d be happy to take a look at no cost to you. We pride ourselves on identifying and diagnosing structural problems for homeowners throughout Potomac […]

Riva MD

Serving homeowners in Riva, MD and all throughout Anne Arundel County, we are ready to help you preserve your home’s value and comfort. Have a structural, foundation, crawl space or wet basement problem? What about a sinking stoop, an uneven sidewalk, or a sunken concrete slab? We have a solution. Our professional inspectors bring extensive knowledge […]

Rockville MD

Rockville MD is Montgomery County’s county seat, and is also the third largest incorporate city in Maryland. So when Rockville MD homeowners need foundation, basement, or concrete repair, JES is there to provide solutions for structural damage, basement moisture problems, and sinking concrete. If you need lasting repair solutions in Rockville MD, contact us. As […]

Salisbury, MD

Maintaining your home’s structural integrity is central to its overall value and comfort. Our team in Salisbury MD has the expertise you need to permanently fix your foundation, crawl space, or basement problem – and we also offer concrete lifting and leveling services. We will inspect your property at no charge and present an estimate […]

Severna Park MD

Severna Park MD homeowners are no strangers to bowed walls, foundation settlement, and basement moisture repairs. Structural damage is often a result of an underlying problem, and since Severna Park MD sits near the Severn River, it is especially important to understand foundation problem signs. Instead of taking chances with the stability of your home, […]

Silver Spring, MD

Award-Winning Solutions in Silver Spring JES Foundation Repair (JES), a Groundworks Company, specializes in helping homeowners with their foundation repair, basement waterproofing, crawl space encapsulation, and concrete needs. Our top priority is providing high-quality home repair solutions and personalized service across Virginia and Maryland. With fully trained technicians, industry-leading products, and nationally backed warranties, JES […]

Upper Marlboro MD

Maintaining your home’s structural integrity is central to its overall value and comfort. Our team in Upper Marlboro MD has the expertise you need to permanently fix your foundation, crawl space, or basement problem – and we also offer concrete lifting and leveling services. We will inspect your property at no charge and present an […]

Waldorf, MD

Maintaining your home’s structural integrity is central to its overall value and comfort. Our team in Waldorf MD has the expertise you need to permanently fix your foundation, crawl space, or basement problem – and we also offer concrete lifting and leveling services. We will inspect your property at no charge and present an estimate […]

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The duration depends on the damage extent and crawl space dimensions but generally it is completed within a couple of days. JES Foundation Repair ensures a quick and efficient service, with minimal disruption.

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Shaye Glisson

Shaye Glisson

Shaye is an SEO Content Writer for Groundworks with over twelve years of experience creating helpful content across various industries, including home services and retail. She is a Gulf Coast native and writes from her firsthand knowledge of the area's hurricane and flood impacts on the local community. In her free time, Shaye enjoys exploring the local food and music scenes.

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JES Foundation Repair service area map of the Mid-Atlantic region.

Our Locations

Baltimore

8361 Town Center Ct
Nottingham, MD 21236

Fredericksburg

311 Central Rd.
Suite 2-02
Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Hampton Roads & NE NC

2569 Quality Ct
Virginia Beach, VA 23454

Northern VA & DC

7940 Gainsford Ct.
Bristow, VA 20136

Richmond

309 Quarles Rd
Ashland, VA 23005

Southwest Virginia / Roanoke

2033 Cook Dr.
Salem, VA 24153

Western Virginia

456 Old Courthouse Rd
Appomattox, VA 24522

Winchester

45 W Boscawen St,
Winchester, VA 22601