Is your Lubbock, Texas home on a pier and beam foundation and in need of an adjustment or professional attention? Do you believe something troublesome has happened in the crawl space? Seeing evidence or signs that the home is losing stability? Contact Childers Brothers, a local family-owned company that’s been working with homes like yours for decades.
Lubbock has plenty of pier and beam-supported homes dating back to the 1950s. Modern homeowners often appreciate these structures for the versatility they offer. The small to large crawl spaces can be utilized to install a variety of systems, including central heating, electricity, and plumbing. This flexibility allows for easier access and maintenance of these systems, which can be a significant advantage over other foundation types.
However, like any foundation system, pier and beam foundations come with their own set of challenges. These issues can compromise the structural integrity of the home if not addressed promptly and effectively. Let’s look at four of the most common issues we help with:
- Moisture Accumulation and Mold Growth: The crawl spaces under pier and beam foundations are prone to moisture accumulation, especially in areas with high humidity or poor drainage. This moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth, which not only deteriorates the wooden beams but also poses health risks to the occupants. Effective moisture barriers and proper ventilation are crucial to mitigating these issues.
- Wood Rot: Constant exposure to moisture without adequate protection can cause the wooden components of the foundation to rot. Over time, wood rot weakens the beams and joists, leading to sagging floors and compromised structural integrity. Regular inspections and the application of wood protectants can help prevent rot and prolong the life of the foundation.
- Shifting and Settling Piers: The exterior piers supporting the foundation can crack, shift, or settle unevenly over time. This movement can create noticeable issues inside the home, such as slanted windows and door frames. It’s important to address these signs early on to prevent further structural damage and ensure the stability of the foundation.
- Uneven Flooring: As the foundation settles unevenly, the floors above can shift, sag, and sink. This not only creates an uneven walking surface but also puts additional stress on the structure of the home. Repairing uneven flooring can be a substantial task, often requiring the adjustment or replacement of beams and joists.
Addressing these common issues with pier and beam foundations requires a proactive approach. Regular inspections, timely repairs, and implementing preventative measures can help maintain the integrity and longevity of these foundation systems. By understanding and addressing these challenges, homeowners can continue to enjoy the benefits of their pier and beam-supported homes while ensuring their structural soundness.
Common Pier & Beam Foundation Issues
In areas where wood and soil intersect, such as under pier & beam foundations, moisture can become a significant issue. Without adequate protection, this environment fosters conditions ripe for mold, mildew, and wood rot. Over time, these elements can weaken the structural integrity of your beams and other support systems installed in the crawl space.
The accumulation of moisture, mold, and mildew in the crawl space creates a persistently damp environment. This moisture exacerbates the degradation of the entire area, leading to potential damage to insulation, HVAC systems, and electrical wiring housed in the crawl space.
Exterior piers, critical for supporting the foundation, are susceptible to cracking, shifting, or failing over time. Signs of compromised piers may manifest inside your home with windows and door frames becoming noticeably uneven or misaligned.
Uneven and shifting flooring is a common symptom of pier & beam foundation issues. As the foundation settles unevenly, floors may sag or sink, causing structural misalignment throughout the house. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent extensive repairs and mitigate secondary problems that may arise from foundation instability.
Regular inspections and maintenance of pier & beam foundations are essential to identify early signs of damage. Timely repairs and appropriate moisture management strategies can prolong the lifespan of your foundation and preserve the structural integrity of your home or commercial building.
Maybe you’ve stacked immense weight atop a certain section of the beams, and as that slowly buckles other nearby areas creak every time you pass through (so annoying!). We can absolutely get our technicians in there to adjust the beams and move them back into place. They’ll also make all necessary repairs to beams, concrete supports, etc.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
Go ahead and reach out to us today so we can get your basic information and schedule you for a free, no-obligation inspection. Our technicians can inspect your entire foundation system with our in-depth 27-point analysis. Once they’re finished and have taken everything into account, you’ll get a genuine and extremely competitive quote along with all the advised next steps.
What Our Customers Are Saying…
“Everything was great, through the whole process. I was informed and heard when I raised questions or had input. The crew professional and thorough and they did exactly what they said they would. Those are qualities to find in this day and age. We were extremely pleased!”
–B.B.
Lubbock, TX