How to Repair Pier and Beam Foundations?

As any homeowner knows, a foundation is essential for a sturdy, well-built house. Structural damage to pier and beam foundations is a common problem that can cause extensive damage to the home if not repaired.

If you have a pier and beam foundation, you know it is essential to take care of it. A pier and beam foundation can last for many years if properly maintained. However, there are times when damage can occur, and it is important to know how to repair pier and beam foundations.
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This article will go over what a pier foundation is, how you can identify if your house has one, and how to repair it.

What is Pier and Beam Foundation

Pier foundations are made up of individual piers connected by beams or floor joists. The piers are typically made of concrete, stone, or brick, and they support the weight of the house on the beam or joists.

Pier and Beam foundations are most commonly found in older homes, as they were used before the advent of poured concrete foundations. One of the advantages of Pier and beam foundations is that they are easier to repair than poured concrete foundations.

Top Pier and Beam Foundation Repair Methods

Reshimming

One way to repair a settling foundation is to reshim the beams. This involves adding shims, or thin pieces of wood, between the beam and the joist to level out the foundation.

Reshimming is a relatively simple and straightforward process, but it's important to ensure that the shims are level and securely fastened in place. Otherwise, you could end up with more significant problems down the road. If you're unsure how to reshim your foundation correctly, it's always best to consult with a professional.

Gaps can form between the sill and support concrete piers of your foundation over time. These gaps can cause problems with the stability of your foundation and lead to more significant issues down the road. That's why it's important to check for gaps and refill them as needed regularly.
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This simple maintenance task should be done every 3-5 years. By refilling the gaps regularly, you can prevent larger problems from developing and keep your foundation in good shape.

Adding or Rebuilding Pier Stacks 

This beam foundation repair method add pier stacks are support columns built on top of piers, and they help to transfer the weight of your home evenly across the foundation. If you have a pier and beam foundation, the chances are good that your home already has pier stacks in place.
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However, over time these stacks can become uneven or begin to lean, leading to further settling issues. Adding or repairing pier stacks is a relatively easy way to correct these problems and prevent further settling.

Replacing Wood

Rotting or damaged wood is one of the most common piers and beam foundations problems. Pier and beam homes are often built with wood support beams, and over time these beams can rot or become damaged.

If you have rotting or damaged wood on your foundation, it's important to replace it as soon as possible. Allowing the problem to persist will only lead to further damage and stability issues.
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While replacing wood may seem like a daunting task, it's actually relatively simple and can be done without the help of a professional. Simply remove the damaged wood and replace it with new lumber. Be sure to use treated lumber designed for outdoor use to prevent future problems.

Addition of Underpinning to the Beam 

Underpinning is a process whereby support posts are added beneath the beams to provide additional support. This can be an effective way to level out a settling foundation and prevent further damage.
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Adding underpinning is a more involved process than some of the other methods on this list, and it's essential to consult with a professional before undertaking this repair.

How to Avoid Pier and Beam Foundation Issues

While it's impossible to avoid all foundation problems completely, there are some things you can do to reduce the likelihood of issues arising.
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One of the best ways to avoid pier and beam foundation problems is to regularly inspect your foundation and ensure that everything is in good working order. This includes checking for cracks, gaps, and other signs of damage.

If you notice any problems, address them as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Additionally, it's good to have your foundation professionally inspected every 3-5 years to ensure that everything is in good working order. For this, you can get in touch with our our foundation pros in Richmond.

Pier and beam home foundations are relatively simple and straightforward, but they still require some regular maintenance to stay in good condition.

Another way to avoid pier and beam foundation problems is to keep your gutters clean and in good repair.

​Clogged gutters can cause water to pool around your foundation, leading to cracking and other damage. By keeping your gutters clean and in good repair, you can help prevent this type of damage.

Conclusion 

Your pier and beam foundation can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. However, it's essential to be aware of the potential for problems and address them as soon as they arise. By taking proactive measures to avoid pier and beam foundation issues, you can keep your home in good condition for years to come.

For more information and best practices on foundation repairs, visit these resources.

Author

​David is the lead content editor at RVA Paving Pros, a service for Richmond VA residents. In his spare time, David likes to travel, read about business and visit the finest italian restaurants in town!