Crawlspace Support | Common Findings and Issues

Conventional flooring or crawlspace area issues are most commonly linked to over-spanned beams, the need for pier adjustment, and moisture related movements. Do keep in mind, there could be items not discussed here, that could be playing a role in your issues. However, that is a blog for another day.

Over-Spanned Support

We recommend a run of support beam approximately every 6 to 8 feet across the conventional crawlspace.  Unsurprisingly, homes are constructed differently.  The joist board dimension (size) will determine the weight bearing properties of that board.  The photo depicts column support in a “tall” crawlspace.

 

 

Need for Pier Adjustment

Soil composition (expansive clay) and ever changing humidity can affect how well a crawlspace support system performs.  Each pier shimmed to level at install.  Forces of nature can cause the shim to loosen or piers of settle into the crawlspace floor.  At that time, Hydro-Guard, Inc. recommends a crawlspace adjustment to tighten and/or re-level the flooring system. Photo depicts an original pier which was re-shimmed to level and the placement of a new (sister) pier.

 

Moisture Related Issues

Crawlspace moisture is not our friend!  Chronic moisture can lead to mold, deteriorated support beams, and unwanted settlement. It is important to control surface ground water run off (gutters and downspout exit pipe), grade to the foundation appropriately (positive lot grading), and routine maintenance among crawlspace ventilation and vapor barriers. The photo below depicts a replaced rim board that had deteriorated from chronic crawlspace moisture.

 

Feel free to contact us with your crawlspace questions or needs!

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