A guide to Re-Stumping
Re-stumping – or re-blocking as it’s known in Victoria – is big business in Australia and can be a very costly exercise, particularly if you don’t know what you’re looking at and you don’t understand what you’ve bought into.
So next time you’re walking through a property, take note of the following re-stumping red flags:
- Noticeable cracks in the plaster walls
- Doors and windows sticking in their frames
- Squeaky floors
- Merrily clinking glassware on the shelf every time someone walks past…
Time to speak to the experts!
Re-stumping is carried out on a building’s foundations, where damaged or decayed stumps and sub-floor elements are completely replaced.
It involves jacking up the house and removing the existing (usually) timber wooden stumps and replacing them. During the re-stumping work floor levels need to be reset and it’s possible that the movement will have caused warped doorframes, cracked plaster, damaged tiles and chinks in your ducted heating… so it’s more than likely a bigger job than first anticipated.
But the best way to avoid expensive problems is to be aware of them before your purchase your house or before you undertake repairs and renovations.
Jim’s Building Inspections have carried out thousands of home inspections for prospective purchasers so that they can make a realistic appraisal of the property before deciding to buy, renovate or repair.
To get an expert in your corner call 131 546 or click here for an obligation-free quote.
Conclusion
Restumping is a crucial process to maintain the structural integrity of homes with timber stumps. Recognising early signs like uneven floors, wall cracks, and misaligned doors can prevent costly repairs later. By understanding the causes, methods, and benefits of restumping, homeowners can make informed decisions to ensure their property’s safety and longevity.
FAQs
Restumping involves replacing old or damaged stumps that support a house’s foundation to restore stability.
Signs include uneven floors, cracks in walls, doors or windows that don’t close properly, and visible damage to existing stumps.
Common causes are timber rot, termite damage, shifting soil, and water ingress.
Methods include traditional stump and base, screw piling, and concrete piling, each suited to different soil conditions and budgets.
Typically, it takes a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the home’s size and the extent of work needed.
Keep gutters clean, ensure proper drainage, and schedule regular inspections to prevent moisture buildup and damage.
Yes, addressing foundation issues can enhance the property’s marketability and value.
Yes, always hire a licensed and experienced professional to ensure the work is done safely and correctly.