Pier and beam foundation may be a traditional foundation system for residential dwellings but it as efficient and durable as most modern, concrete-heavy foundations. This space can be used for incorporating the plumbing connections of the home, making it easier to tend periodic plumbing repairs. Similarly, the crawlspace is often used for installing central heating systems. Pier and beam foundatio
ns that have been used for decades may develop some maintenance-based problems. Understanding Reasons of Pier and Beam Foundation Problems
You should have a basic understanding about how foundation problems are caused. This helps to precisely identify the problem and undertake the appropriate repair procedure. Common factors that can affect pier and beam foundations include:
1 - Underlying Soil
Seasonal moisture is a major reason that induces cracking within the foundations. Soil beds that have high clay content create more problems since they support greater moisture retention. The soil expands every time moisture seepage is heavy and this induces stress upon the foundation. This causes undulating, uneven flooring sections in the basements and under the House.
2 - Inappropriate Construction
Many homes having pier and beam foundation were built with cedar piers. These piers are durable but they restrict the footing area for the foundation. The surface area offered by the footing area dictates the support that is extended to the foundation. Thus, with cedar piers, the foundation is unable to "pass on" the stress to the sub-flooring. This causes constant compression and eventual rotting of the soil layer under the foundation. This causes the Pads and Blocks to start sinking into the underlying soil. This is a common reason for the typical "sunk" appearance of aged pier and beam foundations.
3 - Improper Drainage
The foundation becomes more prone to cracking and mold growth if the drainage isn't directed away from the home’s basement and crawl space . Such wrongly directed, drainage system causes constant presence of moisture around the basement area,crawl space and under House. The moisture is gradually passed on to the lower foundation layers. Presence of water also compromises proper ventilation of the foundation. This hinders quick drying of the basement,Beams,floor Joist,sub floor Other foundation problems include gardening practices wherein the garden’s soil bed drains towards the basement,or under the House.
