There’s no denying the classic appeal of a brick-enclosed perimeter on a pier and beam house. Many homeowners love this style because it hides the piers beneath the house, providing a clean, finished look that also keeps debris and wildlife out. But while this enclosure might look great on the outside, closing in your pier and beam foundation completely with brick and siding can harm your foundation over time. You may ask, “Is it a good idea to close in your pier and beam foundation?” The simple answer is this: Not really. Pier and beam foundations need proper ventilation to stay in good shape. But why is this so important? Learn more about the need for pier and beam foundation ventilation from the professionals at WCK Foundation Repair.
Why Having Pier & Beam Foundation Ventilation Matters
Proper ventilation is a must for all pier and beam homes in South Louisiana. Many of these homes have foundations completely covered with brick or siding. The locals here know how humid the Louisiana weather can get. So, not having proper pier and beam ventilation can lead to wood rot, including in the subfloor and joists. Replacing these components can become significantly expensive because the repair work is tedious.
For these reasons, we want to educate homeowners about the importance of proper foundation ventilation for pier and beam homes. Poor ventilation can lead to expensive problems, but with the right precautions, these issues are easy to avoid. With that in mind, WCK Foundation Repair has some valuable pier and beam foundation ventilation recommendations to share. These tips can help you save time, money, and headaches when it comes to maintaining your home’s foundation.
WCK Foundation Repair Ventilation Recommendations
- One vent should be installed for each 8 to 10 feet of foundation wall. These vents allow outside air to circulate under the floor in summer to prevent moisture buildup that encourages mildew and rot. In winter, when the air is drier, the vents can be closed to reduce the chance that the pipes in the crawl space might freeze.
- Expanded metal vent covers are also a great option for keeping moisture to a minimum while keeping pests or other wildlife out.
- Vent fans can improve airflow under your home, helping keep the soil dry and stable. Excess moisture in the soil can cause it to swell, potentially shifting your foundation and creating drainage issues. To address these problems, WCK Foundation Repair offers a range of residential drainage solutions designed to protect your foundation and keep your home secure.
Make the Right Choice for Your Home’s Foundation
Ultimately, the choices you make when building a home can have a real impact on your foundation’s health down the line. So, before building a brand new pier and beam house, discuss the importance of installing proper ventilation with your contractor. Or, if you have a pier and beam home without proper ventilation, please call WCK Foundation Repair today at 225-664-5956 or contact us online. Don’t wait until it’s too late! Get a free quote from us and rest easier knowing your home’s foundation is more secure.