What Does House Restumping Mean In Construction?

What Does House Restumping Mean In Construction?

House restumping is the process of replacing existing stumps that are found under a house. This is also known as house reblocking and can involve either a full or partial restumping, depending on the condition of the stumps.

Restumping is important for maintaining the structural integrity of a house and preventing collapses. It can also make it possible to add extra rooms to a home and increase its resale value.

The cost of restumping a house varies depending on factors such as size, location, and whether it is a full or partial restump.

On average, fully restumping a small to average-sized home with one to three bedrooms could cost between $10,000 and $25,000, while partially restumping may be cheaper. The process usually takes around two days to complete.

If certain areas of a house require restumping, it is possible to only restump those specific areas. However, if half of the stumps in a house show visible signs of decay, it is highly likely that the others are also deteriorating, even if they appear to be in good condition.

Therefore, it is generally recommended to replace all of the stumps at the same time. A professional restumping expert or building inspector can provide guidance on the most appropriate approach to take.

What Is Involved In House Restumping?

House restumping is the process of replacing (or in some cases removing) existing stumps with either concrete or galvanized steel stumps to prevent damage and collapse.

The process begins with slowly and gradually jacking up the house to a higher height allowing for the current stumps to be removed and replaced.

Although this can prevent any further damage, it may cause issues such as tile displacement or further cracks in walls due to movement caused by the jacking up of the house.

It is therefore important that all precautionary measures are taken before and during the process of restumping or reblocking for a safe and successful result.

How Long Does It Take To Restump A House?

Restumping a house generally takes seven to nine days if it is a full restumping project and one to three days if only a few stumps are being replaced; the timing will depend on the size of the house.

If existing palings or batons need fitting, or conduit or taps require re-fitting, this can be included in the service provided by professionals.

What Factors Can Impact The Cost Of Restumping A House?

Restumping a house can be a costly process, and the final price can be influenced by several factors. These factors include the number of stumps being replaced, the material used for the stumps, the space underneath the house, soil condition, existing foundations, and existing stump holes.

The number of stumps being replaced is a significant factor, as the price per stump can range from $500 to $700 in Melbourne, according to Global Reblocking. The material used for the stumps can also impact the cost.

While galvanised steel stumps are more expensive, they are low maintenance and typically have a longer lifespan than timber stumps, which are the cheapest option but may not last as long.

The space underneath the house is another consideration, as a lower house can make it more difficult and time-consuming for builders to access the stumps.

In some cases, excavating or lifting the floorboards may be necessary, which can add to the overall cost. Soil condition can also be a factor, as poor soil conditions may require additional work and materials.

The existing foundations and stump holes can impact the cost as well. If they can be reused, it may cut down on time and expenses. Overall, the cost of restumping a house can vary widely based on these factors and others, such as the location of the house and the level of experience of the builders.

It is recommended to get quotes from multiple builders to compare costs and ensure you are getting a fair price.

How Do I Know If My House Needs Restumping?

If you notice any of the following signs in your home, it may be an indication that your house needs restumping: doors and windows sticking or not opening and closing properly; the floor sloping in one direction; sagging or uneven floors; cracking interior and exterior walls; and floors that feel spongy or bouncy underfoot.

In addition, if your stumps appear to have rotted or otherwise deteriorated, then further investigation is necessary to determine if restumping is required.