In Manasota Key, Florida, homeowners Calvin Loshinskie and Mary Tinsley are confronting unexpected challenges in their $244,000 home elevation project. The couple, who moved from Michigan to renovate their dream home, decided to elevate the property to mitigate future flood risks after suffering damage from multiple hurricanes.
Project Details and Challenges
The couple contracted Davie Shoring, Inc. to raise their home 12 feet, resting it temporarily on a cribbing system while constructing a new foundation. However, during the process, visible cracks appeared throughout the house, raising concerns about the structural integrity.
Loshinskie and Tinsley expressed their worries about the prolonged period their home spent on temporary supports, noting that cracks extended from ceilings to floors. Tinsley mentioned feeling wind through some of the larger openings, indicating potential vulnerabilities.
Contractor’s Response
Davie Shoring, Inc. defended its work, citing pre-existing structural issues due to multiple unconnected additions to the home. The company emphasized that these conditions were not in line with Florida Building Code standards. Despite these challenges, Davie Shoring claims to have successfully elevated the structure without major structural issues, attributing any damage to minor cosmetic impacts typical of older homes with non-uniform construction.
The contractor also highlighted additional reinforcements made beyond the original plans, including increased steel beam support and expanded footing systems, to stabilize the home according to current standards.
Future Considerations
While the final costs remain uncertain, the couple is ineligible for the state’s Elevate Florida program due to timing issues with their contract. Final inspections are pending, and Davie Shoring has expressed willingness to address reasonable concerns from the homeowners.
This situation underscores the importance of understanding pre-existing conditions and eligibility for state funding when undertaking significant home improvement projects.
Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
