Pier and Beam Foundation Repair
Summary
- Specialized in pier & beam foundation repair, underpinning, and structural stabilization.
- Advanced underpinning methods: micropiles, push piers, helical piers, and mass concrete solutions.
- Residential, commercial, and specialty applications, including seismic retrofitting and historic restorations.
- 25+ years of experience delivering safe, code-compliant, and durable foundation solutions.
Pier & Beam Foundation Repair & Underpinning
Pier and beam foundations use vertical piers and horizontal beams to support a building, creating a crawl space beneath. These foundations, common in older homes and some commercial buildings, allow easy access to plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems while offering flexibility and repairability. Over time, piers may settle, beams may deteriorate, or additional load may require strengthening. Underpinning addresses these challenges, stabilizing and reinforcing the structure with new support elements.
Advanced Underpinning Techniques
Specialized methods for pier and beam systems include:
- Micropiles: Small-diameter deep piers for high-load support.
- Push piers: Hydraulic piers installed through existing foundation elements for immediate stabilization.
- Helical piers: Mechanically-installed piers capable of tension and compression loads.
- Mass concrete underpinning: Enlarging or reinforcing existing piers with staged concrete and steel reinforcement.
These approaches ensure safe, reliable solutions for settlement correction, structural upgrades, and seismic retrofits.
Unique Challenges in Pier & Beam Repairs
Repairing pier and beam foundations involves working in confined crawl spaces, coordinating with existing utilities, and maintaining load paths during construction. Technical expertise is crucial for proper connection of underpinning elements, prevention of differential settlement, and integration with existing structural systems. Occupied buildings and commercial facilities require careful planning to minimize disruption while maintaining safety.
Why Choose RWR Construction
RWR Construction brings 25+ years of experience specializing in pier & beam foundation underpinning. Their team combines historical foundation knowledge, modern underpinning methods, and structural analysis to deliver solutions that meet current building codes. Using low-profile drilling equipment, precision jacking systems, and safety tools designed for confined spaces, RWR ensures high-quality, efficient, and durable repairs.
Residential, Commercial & Specialty Applications
RWR serves a variety of projects, including:
- Residential: Historic home restoration, settlement correction, additions, and seismic upgrades.
- Commercial: Renovations, code compliance improvements, and historic commercial building preservation.
- Specialty: Manufactured homes, agricultural or industrial facilities, and emergency foundation stabilization.
Their integrated services include foundation assessment, engineering coordination, utility management, and full code compliance for all underpinning projects.
FAQs
What is a pier and beam foundation?
A pier and beam foundation uses vertical posts (piers) and horizontal beams to support a building, with a crawl space underneath.
When is underpinning required?
Underpinning is needed for settlement, structural deterioration, increased load requirements, poor soil conditions, or seismic upgrades.
What types of underpinning methods are used?
Common methods include micropiles, push piers, helical piers, and mass concrete pier reinforcement.
Can pier and beam repairs be done in occupied buildings?
Yes, with specialized equipment and careful planning, repairs can be completed with minimal disruption to occupants.
Do you handle both residential and commercial projects?
Yes, services cover historic homes, commercial renovations, industrial facilities, and specialty foundations like manufactured homes.