Pier and Beam Foundation Repair Services
Pier and beam foundations were extremely popular in North Texas a century ago because of our clay soils and extremes in temperature, especially during the summer. Having a pier and beam foundation allowed the building to “move” with these extremes without compromising the overall integrity of the structure.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
What exactly is a pier and beam foundation?
A pier and beam foundation, also known as a post and beam foundation, is a type of foundation construction that uses a series of vertical columns, called piers, to support a horizontal beam. This construction method allows for the weight of the building to be distributed evenly across the entire base of the foundation, providing stability and strength.
The piers in a pier and beam foundation can be made from various materials, such as wood, poured concrete piers, cement blocks, bricks, or stone, and are placed on a concrete foot either on or below the ground.
The beam, which can be composed of steel, wood, or concrete, rests on top of the piers and provides support to the structure. However, over time, the piers – particularly those made of wood – can deteriorate, requiring repair or replacement.
It is crucial to work with an expert who can carefully plan and execute the repair or replacement process since the beam plays a vital role in holding the entire structure in place.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Unique Problems with Pier and Beam Foundations
Pier and beam foundations can present unique problems and challenges that require specialized attention. One common issue is soil movement, which can occur due to expansive soils or poor drainage issues. As the soil shifts or settles, it can cause the piers to become unlevel or sink, leading to an unstable foundation.
Moisture damage is another concern for pier and beam foundations. Excessive moisture from plumbing leaks, humidity levels, inadequate drainage, water damage, or high groundwater levels can result in the rotting or weakening of the wooden components, such as the piers or beams. This can compromise the structural integrity of the foundation and impact the overall stability of the building.
Structural damage can also arise with pier and beam foundations, especially in older homes. Some historical properties may have outdated foundation systems that no longer perform as intended. This can include using unstable materials like Bois D’arc posts or stumps or the presence of inadequate supports such as “stiff legs.” These structural deficiencies can lead to uneven floors, sagging beams, and other specific problems that need to be addressed for the safety and longevity of the building.
At FCS, we have expertise in pier and beam foundation repair methods, including in historical homes built before 1930. We have extensive experience installing in-ground site-cast steel reinforced concrete footings under beam and pier structures, ensuring a durable and reliable foundation.
We see many older homes that have foundation systems that are not performing as designed or have failed. Some have Bois D’arc posts or stumps or “stiff legs,” which are a 4″x6″ section of the beam between the ground and the beam system. This is very unstable as the soil sinks and swells.
Each pier and beam repair is unique due to the varied construction methods employed, so we offer a free inspection to assess the specific needs of each project and provide a firm estimate of costs. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can address the unique problems of pier and beam foundations.
Signs of Pier and Beam Foundation Problems
Here are some visible signs, common causes, or underlying causes that can indicate that a home or building has pier and beam foundation issues:
- Cracks in the walls: Look for cracks that appear horizontally, vertically, or diagonally on the interior or exterior walls of the building. Pay attention to cracks wider than 1/4 inch, as they can indicate significant foundation movement.
- Uneven or sloping floors: If you notice that the floors in your building are no longer extended level or if you feel a noticeable slope when walking, it could be a sign of your home’s foundation settlement or shifting.
- Stuck doors and windows: Difficulty in opening or closing doors and windows, or doors that no longer align properly with their frames, can be indicative of foundation movement.
- Sagging or bouncing floors: If the floors feel bouncy or sag in certain areas when walked upon, it may indicate that the support beams or piers beneath them have been compromised.
- Separation between walls and ceilings: Check for gaps or separation between the walls and ceilings, which may appear as visible cracks or separation lines.
- Uneven or cracked tiles or flooring: Tiles or flooring materials may show signs of cracking or become uneven if the foundation has shifted or settled.
- Visible gaps around windows and door frames: Noticeable gaps or spaces around windows and doors that were not present before can suggest foundation movement.
- Leaning or tilting chimney: A chimney visibly leaning or tilting away from the structure may indicate foundation issues affecting its stability.
If you observe any of these signs, don’t hesitate to contact us, and we can discuss an appropriate course of action.
Our Pier and Beam Foundation Repair Process
Here is our process for pier and beam foundation repair jobs
1. One of our expert evaluators will come to your location. Provided there is adequate crawl space, your evaluator will look at the structure for:
2. We will provide a detailed report with recommendations and a cost estimate.
3. We’ll schedule the work and deploy our expert team.
Pier and Beam Foundation Repair Costs
Pier and beam foundation repair costs can range anywhere from $5,000 – $30,000, depending on the project’s scope. The cost of repairing a pier and beam foundation can vary depending on several factors. These include:
- The severity of the damage – this is a significant factor influencing the cost, as extensive structural issues may require more extensive repairs.
- The size of the building also plays a role, as larger structures typically require more materials and labor.
- Other factors, such as the accessibility of the foundation and the complexity of the repair process, can also impact the overall cost.
Pricing structures for pier and beam foundation repairs will also vary among companies. Some may offer a per-project pricing structure, where the total cost is determined based on the specific needs of the foundation and the scope of the repairs required. Others may charge hourly rates for the labor involved in the repair process.
At FCS, we are committed to fair pricing without ever cutting corners or sacrificing the quality of our work. We always provide transparent estimates to our customers. We understand the importance of clear communication and ensuring our clients have a comprehensive understanding of the costs involved in their pier and beam foundation repair project.
Our team will assess the damage, evaluate the necessary repairs, and provide an accurate estimate, considering the factors influencing the cost. We aim to deliver quality service at a fair and competitive price, ensuring you receive the best value for your investment. Contact us to get your free estimate today.
Other types of Foundations
- Slab Foundation – A slab foundation is a flat concrete pad that rests directly on the ground. It serves as the base for the support of the entire structure built upon it. Slab foundations are common for single-story buildings such as garages, sheds, and patio covers.
- Basement foundation – Basement foundations extend below ground level to create a basement. They provide more living space and protection from extreme temperatures. However, they are more expensive and complex to build.
- Crawl space foundation – Crawl space foundations raise the main floor above the ground, supported by piers, columns, or walls. They allow access to plumbing and wiring but require ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.
- Pile foundation – Pile foundations use columns or piles driven into the ground to support the structure. They are suitable for unstable soils or areas prone to flooding. However, they tend to be the most expensive option.
- Slab-on-grade foundation – Slab-on-grade foundations are the simplest and most common. They consist of a thick concrete slab poured directly on the ground. Slab foundations are inexpensive and easy to build, but they provide little insulation from cold ground temperatures.
Why Hire Us?
With over 25 years of experience serving customers in the Dallas – Fort Worth area, including Allen, Frisco, Plano, and McKinney, FCS Foundation and Concrete Services is the trusted choice for pier and beam foundation or slab foundation repair needs. Our expertise ensures high-quality workmanship and the use of appropriate materials.
We have a proven track record with over 7,000 residential and 1,000 commercial projects, earning us consistent 5-star reviews from our clients and glowing testimonials.
Our exceptional customer service, transparent pricing, and commitment to timely completion set us apart as an experienced foundation repair specialist. Trust FCS for superior craftsmanship and reliable solutions for your pier and beam foundation and other concrete needs. Contact us today to experience the FCS difference.