When you set out to build a home, selecting a foundation is one of the most important things you’ll do.
Foundations are important because they’re what your house rests on. The average house weighs 50 tons, so you need something well-engineered and solid for yours to rest on.
A lot goes into choosing a foundation – climate, soil conditions, location, etc. In this post, we will tell you some of the benefits of choosing a pier and beam foundation for your home.
If you want to rely on your home’s foundation, keep reading, and you’ll see why pier and beam foundations are the way to go.
Pier and beam foundations support the structure of your home more than other types of foundations. They elevate the home by as much as 24 inches above the ground using rebar and concrete piers that are driven into the ground, as well as wooden beams that support the weight of the house.
This was the standard foundation method until the 50s and 60s when it was replaced with more affordable concrete slab foundations. That said, there are many benefits of pier and beam foundations in certain climates and locations.
One of the main advantages of pier and beam foundations is their ability to withstand shifting soil. In areas where the soil is prone to expansion and contraction, such as regions with high clay content, these foundations provide a stable base for your home. The elevated design allows for better ventilation and prevents moisture buildup, reducing the risk of mold and mildew.
Another benefit of pier and beam foundations is their flexibility. Unlike concrete slab foundations, which are rigid and difficult to modify, pier and beam foundations allow for easier access to plumbing and electrical systems. This makes repairs and maintenance tasks much simpler and less invasive, saving you time and money in the long run.
Additionally, the raised construction of pier and beam foundations provides excellent insulation. The space between the ground and the floor allows for installing insulation materials, which can help regulate the temperature inside your home. This can lead to energy savings and a more comfortable living environment throughout the year.
Furthermore, pier and beam foundations offer a higher level of durability. The combination of concrete piers and wooden beams creates a strong and resilient structure that can withstand the test of time. This can be particularly advantageous in areas prone to natural disasters, such as earthquakes or flooding, as the elevated design provides an added layer of protection.
Lastly, pier and beam foundations offer the advantage of easy maintenance. Regular inspections and repairs can be carried out without major disruptions to your daily life. Any issues with the foundation can be addressed promptly, ensuring the long-term stability and safety of your home.
In conclusion, while concrete slab foundations may be more common nowadays, pier and beam foundations have numerous benefits that make them a viable option for homeowners. Their ability to withstand shifting soil, flexibility for repairs and modifications, insulation properties, durability, and ease of maintenance all contribute to their appeal. So, if you’re looking for a reliable and adaptable foundation for your home, consider the advantages of pier and beam foundations.
Pros of Pier and Beam Foundations
When you choose a pier and beam foundation, you get something that accounts for the unpredictability of weather and soil conditions. Here in DFW, we deal with a wide range of weather conditions, so here are some of the pros of pier and beam foundations:
Flood Protection
DFW is no stranger to bouts of summer thunderstorms that bring plenty of rain. Flood conditions can occur, but a pier and beam foundation raises your home and protects it from flood damage.
Cheaper to Repair
Should you ever experience any damage to your home’s foundation, the pier and beam foundation is much cheaper to repair. The reason for this is that you can isolate the area that needs repair, whereas other foundation types may require a costly replacement.
Access to Wires/Pipes
With a pier and beam foundation, you essentially get a crawl space beneath your home. If you ever have any issues with your pipes or electrical work or want to make upgrades, your contractor can get in there.
This is in contrast to a concrete foundation that sets plumbing and electrical work into the concrete.
Better for Uneven Land
If you’re having a new house built on uneven land, pier and beam foundations give you more flexibility. You won’t have to level the land to build a sturdy home.
Building On a Solid Foundation
Now that you understand the benefits of a pier and beam foundation let’s discuss how to obtain one for your home. At FCS Foundation, we’ve been building and repairing foundations in the DFW area for 25 years.
To build a solid foundation for your new home or have your current pier and beam foundation inspected, don’t hesitate to contact us today for a free consultation.
