Foundation and Crawl Space Stabilization Restores Safety and Winter Use at Girl Scout Camp in Duluth, MN
Challenge
When a local Girl Scout camp in Duluth, MN contacted DBS Repair, their main concern was safety. One of their cabins showed signs of significant foundation settlement, leading to uneven floors and structural instability. During winter, the shifting foundation also caused frozen pipes, making it difficult for the space to be safely used for programs and overnight stays. The camp’s goal was to create a stable, usable cabin year-round and protect the structure for the future.
Solution
Our Customer Care team promptly scheduled an inspection, and Design Specialist Jake Gilmer visited the site to conduct a detailed evaluation. Jake’s inspection confirmed that the soil beneath the cabin had shifted over time, weakening the foundation supports and creating unsafe conditions.
To resolve this, DBS implemented a two-part stabilization system using Helical Piers and the SmartJack® System. The project was led by Installers Nate and Justin, who first installed the Helical Piers beneath the cabin. These engineered steel piers were driven deep into load-bearing soil layers to permanently stabilize and, where possible, lift the structure back to its correct level.
Once the foundation was secured, Nate and Justin moved inside to address the cabin’s uneven floors using the SmartJack® System. These galvanized steel columns were precisely adjusted to provide strong, adjustable support—reducing floor bounce and improving overall stability.
The comprehensive solution from DBS Repair permanently stabilized the cabin’s foundation and restored its crawl space support. With the structure now level and secure, the Girl Scout camp can confidently use the cabin year-round—no more frozen pipes or safety concerns. The project ensured lasting protection, improved comfort, and preserved this meaningful space for future generations of Scouts to enjoy.
