pier and beam repair is a broad term that covers a variety of different foundation types. A post and pad foundation with a crawl space falls under this category as well as a traditional pier and beam foundation with concrete pads supporting the house. Regardless of the type of pier and beam foundation you have, these structures are subject to similar issues as slab foundations when it comes to damage and needing repair. The main problem facing pier and beam foundations is expansive soils that can cause the structure to sink or heave, particularly when the soil becomes saturated with moisture. This can occur due to changes in soil moisture, freeze-thaw cycles, seismic activity, and more.
Some common warning signs of a failing pier and beam foundation include a sagging or sloping house, doors and windows that don’t close properly and cracks in walls and floors. This is why it’s so important to keep an eye out for these issues and have your foundation inspected by a professional if you notice them.
The Ultimate Guide to Pier and Beam Repair: Restoring Your Home’s Foundation
There are a number of ways to fix pier and beam foundation problems, depending on the nature of the issue. For example, if you have a sagging house, you may need to re-level the interior floor levels by adding steel shims between the existing pier and wood beams. This method helps raise floor levels and also increases the support of these supports. On the other hand, if your home has a perimeter beam that needs to be elevated, you can use concrete or steel pilings to lift and reinforce this area of the foundation.
