Pier and Beam Foundation Repair

The majority of the homes built until the early 1960’s were Pier and Beam homes. These have the advantage of a crawl space beneath the structure to allow for easier access and repair.

If cracks are noticed in a Pier and Beam foundation, the problem has many more variables than a solid slab foundation and requires the review of a trusted professional.

Types of Foundation Repair

Prepare Site:

The Pier and Beam Foundation repair is done in several phases. The area is cleared of all shrubs and plants. Then, tarps are laid down to protect the surrounding lawn. The crew is able to enter the crawl space under the structure to replace any rotten wood or broken beams and install piers as needed.

Stabilizing:

Using hydraulic jacks, the interior floor levels are raised to their natural position. The team moves slowly and systematically to ensure a gentle and uniform lift. The Field Superintendent monitors the lift of the structure to ensure the reaction of the structure and interior elevation readings is accurate and does not cause unnecessary strain on the structure.

Shimming Process:

Once the structure has been lifted to its natural position, the team removes any previously installed shimming and replaces it with metal and permanent fillers. Beams are then added as necessary in areas of the floor system that need reinforcement. If there is an insufficient amount of interior supports, interior pads and blocks or steel piers are added to stabilize the interior structure and floor system.

Pier Completion:

Once the structure has been lifted to its natural position, concrete cylinders or steel piers replace the hydraulic jacks to provide permanent support to the structure. Once the excavated area is filled in, any debris resulting from the repair process will be removed. The foundation is now incredibly secure thanks to the Pier and Beam Reshimming System.