Sagging floors can be a big problem for many homeowners in Canada. But if you know how much it costs to fix them, it can make things easier. Here’s a simple guide to what causes sagging floors, how to spot the signs, and what you can expect to pay for repairs in Canada.

Why Do Floors Sag in Canadian Homes?

There are a few reasons why floors might sag. Knowing these reasons can help you figure out what’s wrong and how to fix it.

• Water Damage: Too much water from leaks or humidity can make wooden floor joists weak, causing them to sag.
• Settling Foundation: Over time, a house’s foundation can settle, making the floor joists shift and sag.
• Not Enough Support: Sometimes, houses are built with not enough support, leading to sagging floors.
• Pest Damage: Bugs like termites can eat the wood that supports your floor, making it weak and saggy.

How to Tell if Your Floor is Sagging

It’s important to catch a sagging floor early to avoid more damage. Look out for:

• Floors that are not even or are sloping
• Gaps between the floor and the baseboards
• Visible dips or sags when you look across the floor
• Floors that bounce or creak when you walk on them

How Much Does it Cost to Inspect a Sagging Floor?

Before you start repairing, you need to know what’s wrong.

• Professional Inspection Fees: This can cost between $150 and $300. A professional can find all the problems for you.
• DIY Inspection Tools: You can also check yourself using tools like a level, a moisture meter, and a flashlight. These tools cost around $50 to $100.

Sagging Floor Repair Costs: A Simple Breakdown

The cost to fix sagging floors depends on how bad the problem is. Here’s what you might pay:

Small Repairs

• Adding Extra Joists: Putting a new joist next to the old one can cost $100 to $300 per joist.
• Adding Support Columns: This can help make the floor stable and costs $200 to $400 per column.
• Fixing the Sub-floor: Replacing parts of the sub-floor can cost $200 to $500.

Medium Repairs

• Replacing Joists: If joists are too damaged, they may need to be replaced, costing $350 to $700 each.
• Leveling the Floor: Using compounds to even out the floor costs $500 to $1,500.
• Installing Piers: To support the foundation, installing piers costs around $1,000 to $3,000 each.

Big Repairs

• Replacing the Whole Floor: In really bad cases, you might need a new floor, which costs $20 to $30 per square foot.
• Consulting a Structural Engineer: For major problems, an engineer might be needed. Fees range from $500 to $1,500.
• Big Foundation Repairs: Fixing major foundation issues costs between $5,000 and $25,000.

Extra Costs to Think About

Other things can add to the repair costs:

• Permit Fees: These can cost $100 to $200 depending on where you live.
• Pest Control: If bugs are the problem, treatments cost between $200 and $1,000.
• Moisture Control: To keep water problems at bay, installing sump pumps or dehumidifiers can cost $1,000 to $3,000.

Tips to Save on Floor Repair Costs

Here are some tips to help you save money:

• Do Minor Repairs Yourself: For smaller issues, consider doing the work yourself.
• Regular Maintenance: Check your floors often and fix small problems early to avoid big costs later.
• Get Multiple Quotes: Ask different contractors for estimates to find the best price.

When to Call a Professional

Some repairs are too big to handle on your own, like:

• Major damage
• Structural issues that affect your home’s stability
• Ongoing pest or water problems

Keeping your home’s structure strong is very important. By knowing how much it costs to fix sagging floors and what’s involved, you can make smart choices. Ignoring the problem can lead to more serious issues in the future. Take action today to protect your home’s value and your peace of mind.