Is your home situated on a pier and beam foundation? If so, then you may already be familiar with the challenges that damage or issues with these foundations present. Cracks in the walls, doors that don’t close properly, floors that tilt or slope—all of these can result from an unstable foundation. Fortunately, there are professional Hammond pier and beam foundation repair companies, like WCK Foundation Repair, that specialize in helping homeowners address these common issues.
If you are concerned about the health of your foundation, it’s important to educate yourself about the signs of pier and beam foundation damage and how to maintain its integrity. Take an in-depth look at essential information regarding pier and beam foundation and how to spot warning signs of damage.
Louisiana’s History of Pier and Beam Foundations
Pier and beam foundations were the favored method for supporting homes in the 1950s and 1960s, offering better ventilation, protection from termites and rot, and adaptability to unstable soils. The popularity of pier and beam foundations in South Louisiana is linked to their practical adaptation in response to the region’s unique environmental challenges. South Louisiana’s low-lying, marshy landscape with a high water table and frequent flooding necessitated a foundation system that could elevate homes above potential water damage.
A home with a pier and beam foundation has wooden floors and a substructure (or beams) supported underneath by concrete piers. This elevated foundation type allowed homes to stay above the often waterlogged ground, protecting them from the region’s ever-present flood and hurricane threats. And, it remains a popular choice in South Louisiana to this day.
Unique Signs of Pier and Beam Foundation Damage
Older homes with pier and beam foundations can be found throughout Hammond and across Tangipahoa. These homes often show unique signs of damage and require equally unique repair methods.
Signs that may call for Hammond pier and beam foundation repair include:
- A leaning chimney
- Sticking doors and windows
- Cracks in your ceiling
- Sloping floors
- Cracks in walls or floors
- Bowing or bulging walls
If you notice these signs of damage, reach out to a trusted repair expert as soon as possible. Ignoring these signs can not only cause further damage to your home but could also put you and your family in danger.
What Causes Pier and Beam Foundation Damage?
Failing pier and beam foundations are typically caused by the soil beneath the foundation. South Louisiana has an alluvial soil. As the soil gets wet, it expands. And as it dries, it contracts. The constant fluctuation caused by volatile weather can cause the piers to shift. This moving soil can also cause voids beneath the foundation, causing the piers to sink.
To prevent damage to your pier and beam foundation, implement maintenance practices such as installing property drainage systems and keeping your crawl space clean of debris. In addition, you can also consult with a Hammond pier and beam foundation repair professional to protect your home’s structural integrity.
Contact Us for Hammond Pier and Beam Foundation Repair
If you notice any of these warning signs, it is time to consult a trusted, local, and knowledgeable company for Hammond pier and beam foundation repair. WCK Foundation Repair is the expert at repairing and restoring pier and beam foundations. Our skilled team understands the natural forces that impact South Louisiana. Additionally, we know how our weather can damage the structural integrity of southern homes. For more information about our services, give us a call at 225-664-5956 or send us a message online.