Need to know how to put in screw jacks

We have a floor sag problem on the first floor, and I was planning on installing a small i-beam with 2 screw jacks. I have some questions about the footer I need to install.

First, how big should these footers be? Will 2x2 feet be enough?

Second, how should I make the footers? I was thinking of using a gas-powered circular saw (looks like a chain saw with a circular blade up front) to cut the edges, then air chisels to chop up the center.

What should I fill the hole with, and how deep should I go? How can I prevent the stone from filling the hole as I dig deeper?

So many questions, maybe too many. Any help is appreciated.

-joe

 

Joe,

What you have is something that a professional should look at first before proceding with your project.

I know that may not be what you want to hear but what you say and what one sees can be 2 different stories.

Raising up a sag in one place can mean raising up something else in another and probably not to your liking.

Size of footing may differ depending on the total total load that is placed in this location and that should calculated out before trying to make something work when it won't.

The amount of time that this area has been sagging can be another issue all on it's own, so again, seek a professional or professional advice with a more "eye's on" approach to this venture.

Hope this helps!

 

The top and bottom plates of the screw jacks, and the threaded collar need to be welded to the posts. The plates need to be fastened to the structure. Using these for more than a temporary support requires some load calculations to ensure bearing area against the wood member and support at the footer. Heavy loads (within the post capacity) can require steel angle to spread the load out on wood members.