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Can You Lift a House With a Crane?

When faced with certain obstacles, such as flooding, a change of location, or ground instability, homeowners may consider a unique solution: lifting their house. A question often posed is: can you lift a house with a crane? As providers of comprehensive crane rental services in Northern Alberta and across Canada, TNT Crane & Rigging is more than equipped to answer this query. Yes, with the right planning and equipment, it is entirely possible to lift a house using a crane.

Cranes for House Lifting

What type of crane would it take to lift a house? Given the size and weight of an average house, it is crucial to use the correct crane that can safely handle the load. Generally, a mobile hydraulic crane is used for house-lifting projects; however, the specific type and size of the crane required will depend on the dimensions and weight of the house, the height it needs to be lifted, and the conditions of the project site.

For example, a house weighing 50 tons may require a 300-ton crane. The crane’s load chart—which is a graphic representation of its lifting capacity at different heights and radii—is an invaluable tool for calculating the required crane size. At TNT Crane & Rigging, our team of experts is well-versed in determining the best crane for your specific house lifting needs.

How to Lift a House With a Crane?

1. Preparation

Creating a lift plan should be the main preparation activity. When it comes to crane safety, it is important to disconnect all utilities, such as electricity, water, and gas, before the lifting process starts. All necessary permits must be secured as well.

2. Foundation Work

The house needs to be separated from its foundation. This is typically accomplished by cutting the bolts or breaking the concrete along the house’s perimeter.

3. Cribbing

Wooden cribbing, or temporary support structures, are placed under the house. They act as a platform for the hydraulic jacks that will initially lift the house.

4. Initial Lift

Hydraulic jacks are synchronized to lift the house from its foundation and onto the cribbing.

5. Attaching the Crane

The crane’s hook is then carefully connected to the house using steel beams and rigging gear.

6. Lifting

The crane, under the control of a skilled operator, will lift the house further off the ground. The house can then be placed on a higher foundation or moved to a new location.

7. Final Adjustments

Once the house is in the correct position, it is lowered onto its new foundation, and all necessary adjustments are made.

Can We Lift a House?

Ultimately, the answer to the question, “can a house be lifted with a crane?”, is a resounding yes; however, the key to a successful lift lies in careful planning, expert execution, and the right equipment.

If you are considering renting a crane to move a house, trust the experts at TNT Crane & Rigging to guide you through each step of the process. Just drop us a line or call us directly on a toll-free number at 1-833-479-7833 for first-hand, expert advice.