What is a Pier and Beam Foundation? (And why you might want one.)

If you’ve ever heard someone mention a “pier and beam foundation” and thought, that sounds like something out of a pirate ship, you’re not alone. But don’t worry—this type of foundation is actually a tried-and-true method used in home construction, especially in areas with tricky terrain or moisture-prone soil. Let’s break it down in plain English.

First Things First: What Is a Pier and Beam Foundation?

Imagine your house isn’t sitting directly on the ground but instead is lifted up and supported by a series of sturdy legs. Those “legs” are called piers—usually made of concrete or concrete blocks—and they’re spaced out beneath the home to hold up the structure. Across the top of those piers run beams, which are long horizontal supports made of wood or steel. Together, they form a raised platform that your house sits on.

This setup creates a space between the ground and the floor of your home. If that area is enclosed with short walls, it’s called a crawl space—basically a shallow basement you can’t stand up in, but you can crawl through (hence the name).

Why Use This Type of Foundation?

Pier and beam foundations are especially popular in places where the soil isn’t super stable, or where flooding is a concern. Because the house is elevated, it’s less likely to be affected by moisture, shifting soil, or even pests like termites.

Here are a few perks:

• Built for Uneven Ground: No need to level the entire lot. These foundations can be adapted to slopes or rough terrain.

• Moisture Protection: Being raised off the ground helps prevent water damage and rot—especially important in humid climates.

• Easy Access for Repairs: Plumbing, electrical wiring, and HVAC systems are often tucked into the crawl space, making them easier to reach when something needs fixing.

• Earthquake Friendly: The flexible design can absorb seismic movement better than a solid concrete slab.

Are There Any Downsides?

Like anything in construction, pier and beam foundations aren’t perfect. Here are a few common issues:

• Settling: Over time, the soil beneath the piers can shift, causing parts of the house to sink unevenly. This is called differential settlement, and it can lead to cracked walls or sloping floors.

• Moisture in Crawl Spaces: If the crawl space isn’t properly sealed or ventilated, it can trap humidity, leading to mold or wood rot.

• Pests: Rodents and insects love cozy crawl spaces. Without proper barriers, they can sneak in and cause damage.

• Poor Construction: If the piers aren’t spaced correctly or the beams aren’t strong enough, the whole structure can suffer.

How Do You Fix These Problems?

Decorative Image of treated wood just raining into place on a deck. Decorative.

Luckily, most issues with pier and beam foundations are fixable. Here are a few common solutions:

• Foundation Leveling: If the house is sinking unevenly, contractors can install adjustable supports or new piers to bring everything back to level.

• Wood Replacement: Rotten beams or joists can be swapped out for fresh, treated lumber.

• Crack Sealing: If water is sneaking in through crawl space walls, sealing cracks with epoxy or foam can help.

How Can You Prevent Trouble?

Prevention is key. Here are a few simple things homeowners can do:

-PEST CONTROL! Get your foundation's wood treated for termites and beetles, Seal it with a water proofer. For new construction, use pressure treated wood, or wood like cypress which is water resistant naturally.

• Grade Your Yard Properly: Make sure water flows away from your house, not toward it.

• Extend Your Downspouts: Direct rainwater at least 15 feet away from the foundation.

• Clean Your Gutters: Clogged gutters can overflow and dump water right next to your home.

• Watch Your Landscaping: Avoid planting thirsty shrubs or trees too close to the foundation, get rid of dead wood which attracts termites and beetles.

Final Thoughts

Pier and beam foundations are a smart choice for many homes, especially in areas like Baton Rouge where soil and moisture can be unpredictable. They offer flexibility, accessibility, and protection—but like any part of your home, they need a little TLC to stay in good shape.

If you’re building, buying, or just curious about your home’s foundation, understanding the basics can help you make informed decisions and avoid costly surprises down the road.

If you have foundation damage, please hire a professional to help- Breland's BEST has 30+ years of experience in the industry- and will always be honest with you and do our absolute best work- guaranteed. We offer a 7-year transferrable warranty- so even if you sell the home it is still covered by us for the full 7 years!!

Call us, or book an appointment online today!

225-444-0226 (Brad)

225-366-3851 (Tessa)