Hi Everyone,

I have a very heavy fire place hearth and there is a distinct sag in the floor and the hearth extension is sagging about 1/2". This caused the hearth extension to crack a bit near the fireplace opening.

I have spoken to several general contractors (both who have structural experience) and they suggested that I support the floor myself from the basement. They didn't want the job for whatever reason. Perhaps it's too small. Anyway, they both had similar suggestions:

- 2" x 6" CCA Lumber on the floor, and against the ceiling header that's sagging.
- 2 or 3 lally columns resting on a piece of the CCA 2 x 6 x 8 to distribute weight
- very very slowly jack up the header, like 1/8" a day or less

I specifically asked whether the columns needed to be fastened to the floor ... And they said "No". Does that make sense? I prefer not to shoot screws into my slab, but not sure if that's good advice. Ultimately, I would plan to disguise the columns into a shelf or cabinet. Any thoughts on this? Thank you in advance!