Roof lifting is a structural modification technique used to raise the existing roof of a commercial or industrial building, increasing interior clear height without expanding the building’s footprint or undergoing full reconstruction.
The process involves engineered telescoping steel columns and synchronized hydraulic lifts that elevate the roof in place, preserving the original structure and minimizing disruption. Each project follows a defined sequence: site evaluation, steel fabrication, structural separation, controlled lifting, and permanent reinforcement. The sections below explain this step-by-step process, divided into four key phases: planning, preparation, lift execution, and post-lift reassembly.
Initial Consultation & Budgeting:
We begin by understanding your goals and reviewing your building. You’ll get a ballpark estimate, with a detailed quote in about two weeks if needed.
Due Diligence:
Once approved, we inspect your site and provide a fixed-price scope. The due diligence fee is credited if you proceed.
Engineering & Design:
Our engineers create stamped, permit-ready drawings tailored to your building and reviewed for accuracy.
Re-Support & Reinforcement:
Immediately after lifting, we lock the columns into place and install bracing for seismic and wind resistance.
Enclosure & Systems Integration:
New walls are added between the original and raised elevations. We then manage enclosure construction or work alongside your contractor.
Convert or replace internal columns with two-piece or nested tubes designed to extend upward.
Add structural beams and braced lift columns to stabilize the building sides.
Equip each lift point with double-pin, double-cylinder hydraulic systems for controlled, even lifting.
Disconnect roof edges and utilities, then begin lifting the roof gradually, 1 foot at a time.
Lock columns into place and install all structural reinforcements immediately after the lift.
Convert or replace internal columns with two-piece or nested tubes designed to extend upward.
Add structural beams and braced lift columns to stabilize the building sides.
Equip each lift point with double-pin, double-cylinder hydraulic systems for controlled, even lifting.
Disconnect roof edges and utilities, then begin lifting the roof gradually, 1 foot at a time.
Lock columns into place and install all structural reinforcements immediately after the lift.
Many companies subcontract steelwork after a lift, leaving roofs “floating” and project quality uncertain. Not LIFTEX.
We handle the entire process in-house —from lifting to re-support— ensuring safety, efficiency, and seamless coordination. With our proprietary system and experienced ironworkers, you get one team, one standard, and zero compromise.
At LIFTEX, we take pride in delivering innovative, sustainable roof lifting solutions that transform buildings and businesses. Don’t just take our word for it — here’s what some of our valued clients have to say about their experience working with us and the impact of roof lifting on their operations.
Most lifts are completed in 1–3 days per section, depending on the size of the roof and complexity of the project.
Absolutely. LIFTEX uses proprietary technology with a 100% success rate and strict adherence to OSHA and internal safety protocols.
In many cases, yes. Roof lifting is designed to minimize downtime and disruption to ongoing operations.
Buildings with extensive rooftop equipment, certain structural limitations, or zoning restrictions may require additional evaluation.
Yes. Roof lifting avoids the costs of land acquisition, new construction, and business relocation — often yielding faster ROI.
Clear Height: Distance from the floor to the lowest overhead obstruction (ideal for calculating usable vertical space).
Vanilla Shell: A basic building with four walls and a roof — ready for tenant-specific fit-out.
Columns/Beams: Vertical (columns) and horizontal (beams) structural steel elements that hold up the roof.
Floor Plan: A bird’s-eye view layout of the building, often with a structural grid. Bay: The space between four support columns, typically measured as 20’x20’ to 60’x60’.
MEP: Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing systems in a building.
Fit-Out: Custom finishing of a space for tenant use — walls, flooring, equipment.
Joists: Horizontal steel components with an open web, forming part of the roof’s framework. Deck: The sheathing layer above joists/beams and below roofing material (often corrugated metal).
For a quick estimate, fill out and submit the quote form. While a firm quote requires a site survey, we’ll provide an indicative figure. Attach documents, drawings, or images to the lead form for better assessment.
Please note we do not service residential properties.
Thank you!
Never share sensitive information (credit card numbers, social security numbers, passwords) through this form.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and
Terms of Service apply.
