HOUSTON – Every time it rained, Neida Rodriguez would flood with anxiety and begin packing in anticipation of the rising waters that would often leave her home in Magnolia sitting in inches of water.
In Houston, we know flooding can be a serious concern. For some homeowners, even a few inches of rain can lead to significant water damage. This was the case for Rodriguez, who had experienced flooding in her home three times, despite not being in a designated flood zone. Thanks to Leon Foundation Repair, her home now sits several inches higher, raised to prevent future water damage.
The Home Lifting Process
Houston Life’s Melanie Camp spent the afternoon at Rodriguez’s home to see how the team at Leon Foundation Repair is able to lift a whole home some feet higher than their existing level.
Raphael Ramirez, a lift operator with Leon Foundation Repair, explained the process. “We’ve been here for about a week prepping the house, and today we’re ready to lift.” The lifting process involved using hydraulic jacks; the team tunneled under Rodriguez’s home, strategically placing 38 jacks that worked together to elevate the home.
With the turn of a key, the lifting began. The house rose incrementally, with the team carefully monitoring the height and securing the jacks as they went.
Addressing Flooding Issues
For Rodriguez, the emotional toll of flooding was significant. “I flooded three times during the May floods and again in 2023,” she shared. “Knowing that I’m going to be at peace in my own home is amazing.”
The lifting process not only helps prevent future flooding but also restores a sense of security for homeowners like Rodriguez.
Ramirez explained that the lifting process typically takes about a week, with the actual lifting happening in just one day. “We can raise a house as high as 18 feet, but that’s very challenging,” he noted. For Rodriguez’s home, raising it two feet was deemed sufficient to mitigate flooding risks.
Signs of Foundation Problems
Homeowners may wonder if they need foundation repair services. Leon Foundation Repair general manager Eduardo Amer pointed out some common signs, including cracks in walls, doors that stick, and window separation, which can all indicate foundation issues. “If you see these signs, it’s time to call us for a free estimate,” he advised.
The best part of this process is that homeowners often do not need to leave their homes during the process. Rodriguez was able to stay in her house while the work was being done, leaving only for the actual lifting process, which made the experience much more manageable.
A Community-Focused Solution
The team at Leon Foundation Repair is dedicated to helping the community. Ramirez expressed his passion for the work, stating, “It feels amazing helping out customers who have been through a lot. We’re not just lifting houses; we’re providing solutions.”
As Rodriguez watched her home being lifted, she expressed her gratitude for the team’s support throughout the process. “They’ve been reliable and guided me every step of the way,” she said, highlighting the importance of having a trustworthy team during such a significant home improvement project.
For anyone in the Houston area facing similar challenges, Leon Foundation Repair offers no-cost estimates and expert assistance.
For more information, you can contact Leon Foundation Repair at 832-398-6280 or visit their website at leonfoundationrepair.com.
Watch Neida Rodriguez’s home being lifted in the video above.
