Solid Foundations
One of the main issues with 460 has been it’s original pier foundation. It’s not that it’s unsteady or dangerous but that it’s settled a little bit since 1940! The means the floor isn’t completely level and it leans a little towards the middle, from one side.
We have been researching this since we bought the cabin and the best way to correct it is to use permanent medal piers/ jacks. We already purchased 5 of them and two bottle jacks that are strong enough to both lift and support the entire cabin (and more) indefinitely.
The only reason we haven’t installed them yet is we also wanted to build stairs going to the upstairs attic, which, afterwards, would technically make it an official second story. That would also be the time to get permits and do the rest of the remodel at the same time. Since we got 451 and have been remodeling it first - 460 is still “Ready to be Remodeled”
Get the the official “Shore Heads” from Ellis or choose a different way to attach them to the support wood. They are only a few dollars from the hardware store. They are currently/ originally attached with cement piers, wood, and nails.
Even if you didn’t want to install stairs and leave it as it is, you’ll be able to install these Screw Jacks and even out the floors when installing the flooring of your choice, or the White Marble Ceramic tile that comes with the sale.
Speaking of which, when we took out the original tile flooring we discovered a hidden trap door! It’s basically a covered area that gets you access to under the cabin. It’s actually quite useful since you dont’ have to enter through the crawl space from the outside. Trust me, it will make any work you need to do under the cabin 10xs easier. This will be covered back up with the new flooring.
These 360 pictures show you exactly what’s going on under the cabin. It’s easy access for pluming as well.
These videos show how to install the permanent piers. Depending on the level of remodel you would like - these will work, or you can - do whatever you want!
