Deepening a very shallow crawl space?

[Aaron Z.]

Does anyone have good or bad experience deepening a crawl space that is so shallow that it doesn't allow for full access to the crawl space and floor joists for inspection? I have had some termite trouble so this is forcing the issue and I'd like to fully spray for termites thus the idea to dig out the crawl to 16 inches from soil grade to bottom of joists. Standing by to fill in any needed extra detail... Thanks for your help!

[Thomas S.]

In exactly the same situation I opted to jack up the house as opposed to disturbing the soil. It was easier, quicker and caused no other issues.  Did it myself with 1/2 dozen 20 ton jacks, took about 12 hrs. Raised it 1 ft. It was a small home, about 1000sq ft. but works the same for any size home.