Pier and Beam Foundation Repair

Pier and beam foundations are an old, but trusty design for the structural integrity of a home. Despite concrete slabs coming to the forefront as a primary foundation method, the pier and beam foundation continues to live on in older homes and in new builds with specific needs. Like any building element, the pier and beam foundation is susceptible to damage and general wear and tear and requires an informed solution to ensure new life and longevity.

How Does a Pier and Beam Foundation Work? 

Pier and beam foundations are constructed of treated lumber and elevated atop piers or blocks. A properly constructed pier and beam foundation will have a crawl space under the home. The beams are generally the largest pieces of lumber, and run parallel to the length of the house; they may be spaced up to 12 feet apart. 

Perpendicular to the wooden beams are joists, which are generally spaced approximately 18 inches apart. On top of the joists sits the subfloor. The subfloor is at minimum ½-inch plywood. This surface supports the flooring of the home.

This wooden “understructure” is elevated and supported by a concrete grade beam around the perimeter of the house, drilled concrete piers, sono-tubes, pad & blocks, or some combination of these 4 systems. 

What Causes Damage to Pier and Beam Foundations?

Over time, in addition to the wood rotting, the piers and beams can shift, putting the integrity of your foundation at risk. Other causes of damage can include water damage from flooding or burst pipes and inadequate architecture. When repairing a pier and beam foundation, it is vital to choose a qualified foundation repair company. 

You need someone who understands the major differences between pier and beam foundation repair and slab foundation repair. Both types of foundations are common across the state of Texas. Most newer homes are built with a slab foundation, while older homes tend to be pier and beam.

Experienced Pier and Beam Repair Professionals 

Perma-Pier Foundation Repair of Texas has a team of specialized evaluators and construction professionals. We have successfully completed over 30,000 commercial and residential projects, including thousands of pier and beam foundation repairs. We have been backed by science and industry trust for over twenty years. We provide no-charge evaluations to the Dallas – Fort Worth, Austin, San Antonio, and Houston markets.

Pier and Beam Foundation Repair Methods

When it comes to repairing your pier and beam foundation, there are a variety of methods to choose from because it can be more complicated than a slab foundation. Having a knowledgeable foundation repair company come in and complete a thorough evaluation of your foundation, landscaping, drainage, and surrounding soils is critical to determine the best method of repair for your home. 

Drainage and Landscaping

One of the most critical components to consider when repairing a pier and beam foundation is whether or not the foundation is undercut. Undercutting occurs when the soils that are immediately adjacent to the foundation are at a higher grade than the soils directly underneath the house. 

This can cause problems because water can pool or gather under the foundation, causing the soil to heave and potentially leading to foundation damage. If you need your pier and beam foundation repaired, it’s essential to work with a company that understands how the soil, drainage, and landscaping impacts your foundation.

Resetting and Reshimming

Another method for pier and beam foundation repair is by resetting and reshimming the existing supports with galvanized steel shims. This will help level out the floor, providing a more supportive structure for your home. To determine whether or not this method of repair is best for your home, schedule a free evaluation with Perma-Pier.

Replacing Wooden Beams

Replacing wooden beams is another method for pier and beam foundation repair. This consists of either poured-in-place sono-tube or pad and block supports for the wood members. Learn more about whether this type of foundation repair is best for your home by scheduling a free evaluation with the professionals from Perma-Pier. 

High-Quality Solutions From Perma-Pier

If your foundation is in need of repairs, Perma-Pier can help. Our knowledgeable, experienced professionals will perform a thorough evaluation of your foundation.

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to foundation repair, and we are passionate about providing the highest quality fix to secure the integrity and health of your foundation. Contact us today to schedule your free evaluation.