The two common foundation types for homes in Texas are: pier and beam or concrete slab. There are distinct advantages to both types of foundation. It’s important to understand the type of foundation that your home has so that it can be properly maintained and repaired.
Homes with pier and beam foundations have a system of wood, concrete or steel piers dug into the earth that support a framework of wooden or steel beams that in turn support the structure of the house. Unlike slab foundations that completely fill up the space below the house, pier and beam houses have a space, usually of at least 18 inches, between the ground and the house called a ‘crawl space.’ If plumbing problems arise, having a crawl space under the house allows for easier repairs of pipes with less damage and disruption to your home.
While a pier and beam foundation can certainly be an advantage here in North Texas, particularly because a well made pier and beam foundation can adapt to the changes in the soil in ways that a concrete slab cannot. There are, however, certain problems which can occur, and homeowners seeing the following problems with their pier and beam foundation should contact an expert to check everything out:
At Mansfield Foundation Fix, our foundation contractors are experts at assessing and diagnosing any problems, as well as correcting any problems quickly, efficiently and as cost effectively as possible. Don’t let pier and beam foundation issues turn into costly damage to your home or property, let the experts at Mansfield Foundation Fix help you have the best possible foundation for your home.
Homes with pier and beam foundations have a system of wood, concrete or steel piers dug into the earth that support a framework of wooden or steel beams that in turn support the structure of the house. Unlike slab foundations that completely fill up the space below the house, pier and beam houses have a space, usually of at least 18 inches, between the ground and the house called a ‘crawl space.’ If plumbing problems arise, having a crawl space under the house allows for easier repairs of pipes with less damage and disruption to your home.
While a pier and beam foundation can certainly be an advantage here in North Texas, particularly because a well made pier and beam foundation can adapt to the changes in the soil in ways that a concrete slab cannot. There are, however, certain problems which can occur, and homeowners seeing the following problems with their pier and beam foundation should contact an expert to check everything out:
- Moisture: When drainage issues occur under a pier and beam foundation there can be pooling which can lead to mold or rotting wood
- Rotting wood: compromised wood pieces must be replaced before structural problems occur with the home
- Sagging: If beams were not initially properly spaced for the structure of the home, sagging floors can cause structural damage to the home and must be addressed
At Mansfield Foundation Fix, our foundation contractors are experts at assessing and diagnosing any problems, as well as correcting any problems quickly, efficiently and as cost effectively as possible. Don’t let pier and beam foundation issues turn into costly damage to your home or property, let the experts at Mansfield Foundation Fix help you have the best possible foundation for your home.