Foundation problems are a homeowner’s worst nightmare. Cracks in walls, uneven floors, and doors that won’t close are all too frequently precursors to more serious structural issues that demand prompt attention. Confronted with these challenges, many homeowners turn to foundation piering as an encouraging alternative. Are they, nevertheless, the most suitable repair method for your specific issue? Are foundation piers a good repair?
We’ll answer that question in time, but first…what is a foundation pier? Foundation piers are steel support systems that work to shift your home’s weight from unstable soil to more solid ground or bedrock beneath. These engineered supports can return stability to settling foundations and halt additional structural damage. Knowing how they function and when they’re most effective will allow you to make an informed decision regarding your home’s foundation repair needs.
How Foundation Piers Stabilize Your Home
Foundation piers function by bypassing problematic soil layers that cause foundation settlement. Professional contractors such as Bill’s Custom Concrete install these steel supports by driving or drilling them deep into the ground until they reach stable soil or bedrock. The piers then transfer your home’s weight to this stable foundation layer, eliminating the pressure on the compromised soil that caused the original settling. The best foundation repair companies in OKC routinely use this technology to ensure long-term results for homeowners.
There are two primary categories of foundation piers that cater to different structural requirements. Push piers utilize the weight of your house to push steel segments into stable soil levels, which makes them well-suited for the majority of residential uses. Helical piers have screw-like additions that screw into the earth, which are superior in supporting structures in softer soil types where push piers may be inappropriate.
Major Benefits of Foundation Pier Systems
Foundation piers offer several major benefits that make them extremely attractive to homeowners who are finding it difficult to deal with foundation issues. The systems provide permanent stabilization instead of temporary repairs, addressing the root cause of foundation issues instead of just masking symptoms.
The process of installation creates less disturbance to your property than other methods of foundation repair. Contractors can usually install piers with little or no excavation and without damaging landscaping, driveways, or other structures near your house on concrete piers.
Foundation piers can also lift settled foundations back toward their original grade. While complete restoration is not always possible, most homeowners will see noticeable improvement in door alignment and floor levelness with pier installation. Many contractors also offer concrete piers for foundation repair when specific site and soil conditions are present.
Key Factors to Consider
A number of factors should go into your foundation pier installation decision. One major consideration is cost, as pier systems involve considerable initial investment. In most cases, though, this cost is well worth it compared to what you might pay in continued foundation deterioration and loss of property value.
Soil conditions around your property are one of the main elements in the calculation of pier effectiveness. Contractors are helped by professional soil testing in selecting the appropriate pier type and depth for your specific situation. Some soil types may require alternative measures or additional reinforcement methods.
The extent of the current foundation damage also affects pier suitability. While piers excel at preventing future settlement, they are not a remedy for all types of foundation problems. Severe structural damage may require additional repairs coupled with pier installation.
Making the Right Choice for Your Foundation
Foundation piers are a durable, proven answer to most residential structural problems. With the ability to stabilize permanently and even lift, they are worth it for homes with foundation settlement issues.
However, a decision to install foundation piers should always involve expert consideration of your unique situation. Bill’s Custom Concrete can assess your property and provide the most appropriate repair suggestion. Professional consultation ensures that you invest in solutions that function for your foundation problems and give long-lasting value to your house.