BRELAND'S BEST FOUNDATION REPAIR

What is a pier and beam foundation?
A pier and beam foundation uses vertical piers (concrete, brick, or steel) to support horizontal wooden beams that hold up the home. This creates a crawl space beneath the house, making repairs and leveling easier than slab foundations.
 

How is a pier and beam foundation different from a slab?
Slab foundations sit directly on the ground. Pier and beam homes sit elevated, allowing airflow and easier access for repairs. They’re common in older Baton Rouge neighborhoods and areas prone to moisture or flooding.

Are pier and beam homes better for Louisiana’s climate?
Often, yes. The raised design helps with drainage, humidity, and shifting clay soil. However, the wooden beams and crawl space require regular maintenance to prevent moisture damage.

What are the most common signs of pier and beam foundation issues?
•     Sagging or uneven floors
•     Doors sticking or misaligned
•     Cracks in walls or ceilings
•     Gaps between floors and baseboards
•     Moisture or standing water in the crawl space
•     Musty odors from under the home
•     Visible rot or termite damage on beams

Are sloping floors always a foundation problem?
Not always, but they’re a major warning sign. Sloping floors often indicate settling piers, rotted beams, or moisture damage in the crawl space.

How do I know if my crawl space is causing foundation issues?
Look for moisture, mold, soft soil, sagging insulation, or wood rot. Baton Rouge humidity makes crawl space moisture one of the biggest threats to pier and beam homes.

How is pier and beam foundation repair done?
Repairs may include:
•     Replacing rotten beams
•     Resetting or installing new piers
•     Leveling the home
•     Adding shims for support
•     Installing moisture barriers or drainage
•     Reinforcing structural framing

Do you have to remove floors to repair the foundation?
Usually no. Most work is done from the crawl space. Only severe structural damage may require interior access. If the crawlspace is too small for human access, the floor and subflooring will likely have to be removed- but only in the affected area. 

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Will I need to leave my home during repairs?
Most homeowners stay in the home. Repairs are typically done from outside or underneath the house. Even in cases where the home must be repaired from inside, the affected area can be isolated from the rest of the house with plastic sheeting- making it possible for you to stay in the home (if you don't mind the construction noise!)

How long does pier and beam repair take?

It really depends on the job- but even our largest job to date was done in 10 days. 
Small jobs: 1–2 days
Full beam replacement or leveling: 3–7 days
 

How much does pier and beam foundation repair cost?
Costs vary based on damage, materials, and accessibility. Common ranges:
•     Minor leveling: $1,500–$4,000
•     Beam replacement: $4,000–$18,000
•     Full pier reset or installation: $6,000–$35,000+

What affects the cost of foundation repair?
•     Number of piers needed
•     Beam condition
•     Crawl space height
•     Soil moisture
•     Termite or rot damage
•     Age of the home
•     Local permitting requirements

Is foundation repair covered by insurance?
Insurance usually does not cover settling or age‑related issues. It may cover sudden damage from plumbing leaks or disasters, depending on your policy. Definitely check with your insurance provider to be sure, as policies vary greatly.

Do you offer free inspections?
Yes — we offer 100% (no obligation, no catch) free inspections to diagnose the problem and provide a written estimate.

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Why is my crawl space always wet?
Common causes include:
•     Poor drainage
•     High Louisiana humidity
•     Plumbing leaks
•     Groundwater seepage
•     Lack of vapor barrier

Do I need a vapor barrier or dehumidifier?
In Baton Rouge, vapor barriers are highly recommended. Homes with chronic moisture may also need a dehumidifier or improved drainage.

Can moisture cause foundation failure?
Yes. Moisture leads to wood rot, mold, sagging floors, and pier movement — all major structural risks.

Can termites damage pier and beam foundations?
Absolutely. Termites target wooden beams and joists. Baton Rouge’s climate makes termite prevention essential.

How do I know if my beams are rotten?
Signs include soft wood, sagging floors, musty smells, or visible deterioration in the crawl space.

Can rotten beams be repaired?
Minor damage can be reinforced. Severe rot requires full beam replacement. Anything with 25% or more deterioration should be replaced.

Do Baton Rouge homes have unique foundation problems?
Yes. Local issues include:
•     Expansive clay soil
•     High humidity
•     Frequent rain
•     Flooding
•     Older home construction in Mid City, Garden District, and surrounding areas

What areas do you serve?     

•     East Baton Rouge Parish
•     West Baton Rouge Parish
•     Ascension Parish
•     Livingston Parish
•     Iberville Parish
•     Assumption Parish

•     Pointe Coupee Parish
•     East Feliciana Parish
•     West Feliciana Parish
•     St. Helena Parish
•     Tangipahoa Parish
•     St. James Parish
•     St. John the Baptist Parish
•     Assumption Parish

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How often should I inspect my pier and beam foundation?
At least once a year — and after major storms or flooding.
 

Can I check my crawl space myself?
Yes, but be cautious. Look for moisture, rot, pests (such as snakes and spiders), or sagging beams. A professional inspection is safer and more thorough. And free. 

How can I prevent future foundation problems?
•     Keep crawl space dry
•     Install proper drainage
•     Maintain gutters and downspouts
•     Use vapor barriers
•     Schedule annual inspections
•     Treat for termites

How do I choose the right contractor?
Look for:
•     Local experience with pier and beam homes
•     Licensed and insured professionals
•     Clear written estimates. 
•     Before/after photos
•     A+ Rating on the Better Business Bureau 
•     Warranty options

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What is Breland Foundation Repair's BBB Rating?

A+ of course, but don't take my word for it, go and visit our BBB Page: 

Breland's Best BBB Page

Do you offer warranties?
Yes, all of our customers get a 7 Year Warranty from the day we finish the job, You will get a warranty certificate emailed to you upon completion. 

 

What if I lose my warranty certificate or sell my home?

We keep track of it for you, so don't worry about losing your certificate. And this warranty is attached to your address, not you- so it automatically transfers to new owners if the house gets sold.  Easy! 

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Can I talk to someone about scheduling an inspection, instead of doing it through the website?

Absolutely! Call Brad at your convenience, 225-444-0226

or

Tessa in the office: 225-366-3851

or send Tess an email at tessa@pierandbeamfoundation.com

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