Previous Reading: About Pier & Beam Foundations

Basic Pier and Beam Repair Methods

Most pier and beam foundations can be repaired by employing both or one of the following methods, according to the specifics of the problem.

1) Shoring the Foundation

The process of shoring is recommended when it is determined that the pier and beam foundation is unable to bear the stress. This can be detected through observing pattern of damage in addition to analyzing the current pier and beam placement. Thus, shoring or inducing more support for the foundation is recommended. Here, timber piers are inserted to increase the load-bearing capacity of the foundation. Temporary shoring is usually necessary for residential foundation repairs to create room for the permanent supporting structures. The timbers are inserted under the existing beams of the foundation. This adds more surface area to the footing of the foundation, helping equally distribute the stress onto the new piers.

2) Strengthening the Foundation

If shoring doesn't solve the issue then sonotube application is recommended. Sonotubes are concrete forms, usually hollow, sold as concrete columns. They are inserted in aging foundations to even their slope and increase their overall durability. Sonotubes can be ordered according to different size requirements. They are supplied in a precut/pre-shaped configuration. Sonotubes are usually placed around the rebar of the footing area. This is followed by pouring some concrete to ensure that the sonotube is secured in its position. Sonotube repairing is seriously recommended if there are visible gaps between the ceiling's sheetrock panels or between the base of vertical walls and the foundation floor.

Exterior Warning Signs

Brick or Block Cracks

Displaced mouldings

Pooling water around foundation

Separation around garage door, windows and/or walls

Stuck windows & doors

Interior Warning Signs

Baseboards & Casings detaching

Drywall Cracks

Nail Pops

Separating window & door jambs

Stuck windows & doors

Uneven Floors

We provide a professional report from a Structural Engineer with all of our repairs certifying the work has been performed to industry standards and meets building code restrictions. We have a Class A Contractor's License and are fully licensed and insured.

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All of our work is guaranteed to fix your foundation problem. We have a 5-year warranty on all work performed.

Foundation Contractor in Virginia Beach specializing in house leveling, slab jacking, installation of additional crawlspace piers, slab repair and all other structural repairs in Virginia Beach, VA