Pear and beam, also known as post-on-beam hipped, or gable roof, is a foundation design that uses a series of concrete piers that sink into the ground to find solid support and wooden beams that attach to them. The piers and beams create a crawl space beneath the house that can be used for plumbing and electrical work. This type of foundation is popular in colder climates where frost lines are deeper than they are elsewhere.
Like any other type of foundation, pier and beam can suffer from damage and need repairs. These can range from sagging or hogging of the floor joists to tilting of the piers. This can be caused by heavy loads placed beside the foundation or it may be due to a weak structure. Fixing this can be a large undertaking. It will likely involve stabilizing each pier and constructing a new beam. It is best left to a professional who will be able to provide a quote for the entire project.
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Pier and beam is a very common foundation style for Texas homes. It does well in the clay soils here because it allows for an even weight distribution and piers that won’t shift when the ground gets moist or breaks under extreme stress. Pier and beam construction is also a bit more affordable than slab-on-grade because it does not require as much excavation for the footings. It’s a good option for homeowners who want to avoid the expense of having their home lifted and repositioned.