Expert Tips to Prevent Pier & Beam Foundation Damage

Can Moisture Damage Pier & Beam Foundations in Dallas, TX?

Pier and beam foundations are popular among builders in Dallas, Garland, Plano, and the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex. They provide structural integrity to the home and can protect it from flash floods. However, like any other type of foundation, they can also become susceptible to problems over time, such as moisture damage. James Bond Complete Foundation Repair can inspect your foundation if you suspect it may have developed moisture damage. We provide reliable and affordable repair options for pier and beam foundation damage in Dallas, Garland, Plano, and the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex.

Rusty steel bridge supports in water in Dallas, TX

What Is a Pier & Beam Foundation?

A pier and beam foundation is a commonly used type of foundation that elevates the structure above ground. It is comprised of concrete piers that are installed deep in the ground to provide support. Beams are laid across the piers, creating a raised structure and providing good support for the building. These foundations typically feature a crawlspace underneath the home.

How Does Moisture Impact Pier & Beam Foundations?

Although pier and beam foundations are quite strong and durable, they can develop problems over time, just like other types of foundations. In fact, water intrusion is one of the most common issues we see with these foundations.

Because these types of foundations are elevated, they are popular in areas prone to flooding. However, this can give rise to another type of problem: moisture accumulation underneath the structure. This can lead to wood rot, mold growth, and, over time, structural damage.

If standing water accumulates in the foundation, this can affect the soil that supports the foundation. If the soil erodes, the piers can begin to shift or even sink, causing structural issues in the home.

Pier & Beam Foundations: Benefits to Consider

Although a pier and beam foundation may be susceptible to certain problems like moisture damage, they do offer significant benefits. Property owners may choose to build their homes with this type of foundation because of the following advantages:

Provides easy access to the building’s HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems
Can be encapsulated to provide extra storage space
Can effectively protect the home from flooding
Ideal for uneven or sloping land

What Are the Signs of Moisture Damage?

If your pier and beam foundation is developing moisture damage, you may notice some musty odors coming from the crawl space. This can be evidence of mold and mildew growth. You may also see visible mold and mildew on the structure.

Inside your home, you could notice sagging in the floorboards. If your foundation begins to shift, you might notice cracks in the walls or gaps between the walls and the floors or ceilings. Sticking doors and windows are other signs of pier and beam foundation issues.

What Are Some Tips to Prevent Moisture Damage?

It’s always ideal to prevent water under pier and beam foundations whenever possible. Try the following tips:

Use a dehumidifier or install a vapor barrier in your crawlspace.
Ensure proper drainage around your home, with proper grading to direct water away from the foundation. Consider digging a trench drain.
Clear the gutters and downspouts regularly.
Inspect your crawlspace regularly for signs of water intrusion or high moisture levels. If you notice anything odd, it’s important to schedule an evaluation with a professional.

Repair Options for a Pier & Beam Foundation

The professionals at James Bond Complete Foundation Repair will conduct a thorough inspection and develop a customized plan to repair your foundation based on its particular needs. Your recommendations may include any of the following:

Underpinning – This involves the use of push piers or helical piers to level the foundation and restore structural integrity.
Pier/Beam Repair or Replacement – We’ll inspect the piers and beams to determine if any are damaged from the moisture, and we’ll fix or replace them as needed.
Reshimming – This process stabilizes shifted and loose beams and joists by closing gaps to stop movement.
Crawl space jacks – These can provide greater support to weak joists.

Contact Us for Expert Foundation Repair in Dallas, TX

If you suspect your pier and beam foundation may have developed moisture damage, don’t delay scheduling repairs. Contact us today in Dallas, Garland, Plano, and the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex, right away. We provide free estimates on all of our work, along with a lifetime warranty for your peace of mind.