Foundation Repair Pier Systems

There are several types of piers that should work fairly well depending on a number of factors including the extent of damage, the age and condition of your foundation and the predominant type of the soil in your area.

In almost all cases repair will be accomplished by installing piers of various types under your foundation to raise and support it. The heavier the structure the more closely the piers must be spaced.

Concrete piers for instance, should be placed approximately eight feet apart for single story homes, multi-story homes will require pier placement to be spaced a little closer. This is a general rule of thumb, different circumstances can call for different pier spacing.

The greatest number of piers are usually required along the perimeter of the foundation because this is where failure generally occurs. If the interior area of the foundation is also sinking, piers may be necessary there too.

The total number of piers, and where they are placed, will also depend on the extent of failure, weight of the supported structure, condition of the foundation, and the type of pier you decide to use. The following are the most common types of piers that are used for foundation repair. I have also written articles that describe each type in detail. Just click any of the links below to read them.

• Pressed Concrete Piers
• Pressed Steel Piers
• Helical Piers
• Drilled Bell Bottom Piers
• Mud Jacking or Slab Jacking

The type of piers you use is a decision you will have to make. You must decide based on the information you find on this and other websites, the advise of foundation salespeople and any other experts you decide to contact. It is an important decision that should not be taken lightly.