We don’t know what we don’t know. Which means that when your home starts showing signs of a shifting foundation, you might not even notice it!
The stability and integrity of a home’s foundation are crucial for the overall structural health of the building. Over time, foundations may develop issues such as:
- Settling
- Sinking
- Cracking
When faced with foundation problems, it’s essential to address them promptly to prevent further damage. One popular method for foundation repair is the use of interior piers. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of interior foundation repair, discuss its potential costs, and weigh the pros and cons associated with this repair method.
Signs of Foundation Damage
Foundation damage can be tricky to spot if you don’t know what you are looking for. Here are some of the clear signs that you may be dealing with a shifting or settling foundation.
- Cracks – Cracks in a variety of places can be a sign of serious foundation damage. The easiest ones to spot are usually on your walls and ceiling. Horizontal cracks are often related to foundation problems, particularly if they form and grow rapidly. You may also spot cracks in the concrete slab underneath your flooring, but as this is often hidden away, it can be harder to spot.
- Tricky Doors and Windows – Are you noticing that it takes more effort than usual to shut your doors or windows? Or maybe they have a tendency to swing open even after being closed. This is usually caused by your foundation moving, making the frames less level than before.
- Separated Counters and Cabinets – As your home settles and moves, you may see that your counters and cabinets start to pull away from the wall, leaving a small but defined gap.
- Sagging Floors – A sagging floor or ceiling is never a good sign unless you are looking for definitive proof that you have a foundation issue. If your floors are sagging, bowing, or have an unnatural bounce to them, your home may be in need of foundation repairs.
Understanding Interior Piers
So, foundation issues = bad. We all get that. But what are your options for stopping slab foundation damage in its tracks?
Interior piers, also known as pier underpinning, involve installing support structures beneath the existing foundation to stabilize and reinforce it. These piers are typically made of steel or concrete and are strategically placed at specific points along the foundation to transfer the weight of the structure onto load-bearing strata below the problematic soil layers.
Potential Costs of Interior Piers
The cost of foundation repair using interior piers can vary significantly depending on several factors, including:
- Severity of the foundation issue
- Size of the structure
- Accessibility of the affected areas
- Local market conditions.
On average, interior pier installation can range from $1,000 to $3,000 per pier, and a typical residential project may require anywhere from 6 to 20 piers. This means that the total cost can range from $6,000 to $60,000 or more, making it a significant investment for homeowners. However, it’s important to remember that the cost of repair is directly proportional to the complexity and extent of the foundation problem. Consulting with a professional foundation repair contractor is crucial to obtain an accurate cost estimate for your specific situation.
Pros & Cons of Installing Interior Piers
✅ Pros:
- Increased Structural Stability: Interior piers effectively redistribute the weight of the structure onto more stable soil layers, providing enhanced support and stability. This prevents further foundation movement and minimizes the risk of additional damage.
- Minimal Disruption: Since the installation of interior piers is carried out within the structure itself, there is no need for extensive excavation or disturbance to the surrounding landscape. This minimizes disruption to the homeowner’s daily life and reduces the time required for repair.
- Versatility: Interior piers can be used in various foundation types, including concrete slab foundations and crawl spaces, making them a versatile solution for different structural configurations.
- Long-Term Solution: Properly installed interior piers can provide a long-term solution to foundation problems. They are designed to withstand the test of time and offer lasting stability to the structure, ensuring peace of mind for homeowners.
❌ Cons:
- Cost: As mentioned earlier, foundation repair using interior piers can be a costly endeavor, particularly for more severe cases. Not only are the piers themselves expensive, but they will require hiring a qualified foundation repair company. This means that you will also need to factor in labor costs to your final price. Homeowners need to carefully consider their budget and evaluate the urgency and extent of the foundation problem before committing to this repair method.
- Not an Instant Fix: In an ideal world, foundation repair companies would complete the installation process and then be on their way with no extra issues on your end. The truth, though, is that fixing your foundation can lead to the need for extensive repairs in other areas of your home. The shifting of your house can create issues for your roof, and plumbing problems in the first 3 months or so are not uncommon.
- Limited Accessibility: In some cases, limited access to the affected area can pose challenges for the installation of interior piers. Tight crawl spaces or finished basements may require additional effort or modifications to carry out the repair, adding to the overall cost and complexity.
Getting the Help You Need
Problems with your concrete foundations should never be ignored, as they can lead to more severe structural damage if left untreated. Interior piers offer an effective solution for stabilizing and reinforcing a compromised foundation, providing long-term benefits and peace of mind for homeowners.
The key is to hire a contractor that you trust that can safely and effectively take on your foundation repair project. That’s where Perma Pier comes in. We are the area’s leading experts in installing piers and foundation repair. If you are looking for a company that has your home’s best interests at heart, we’re the one for you! Contact us today to start your repair process!
