How We Choose Where to Place Foundation Piers

When foundation repair is necessary, proper pier placement makes the difference between effective stabilization and wasted money. Here's how we approach this critical decision.

It Starts With Measurements

Before determining pier locations, we need elevation data. Our topographical survey shows:

• High points on the foundation
• Low points needing support
• Patterns of settlement
• Areas of greatest movement

This data drives pier placement decisions—not guesswork or maximizing pier count.

Strategic Placement Principles

1. Support Low Areas

Piers go where the foundation has settled or needs support. We don't pier high areas—that would be like jacking up a part of your floor that's already too high.

2. Target Load-Bearing Points

Piers work best at structural load points:

• Beam intersections
• Corner areas
• Heavy load zones
• Areas showing active movement

3. Consider Soil Conditions

Expansive clay behavior varies across your property. We account for:

• Moisture patterns
• Drainage issues
• Tree proximity
• Historical movement

4. Beam Capacity

Your foundation's beam structure has weight-bearing capacity. We place piers where beams can transfer load effectively without overstressing the concrete.

More Isn't Always Better

Some companies recommend excessive piers. Why?

• Higher revenue
• Appearance of thoroughness
• Covering uncertainty with quantity

But over-piering can:

• Waste your money
• Create future issues
• Overstress foundation beams

Strategic placement based on measurement is engineering. Pier quantity maximization is sales.

Typical Pier Spacing

While every home differs, general guidelines exist:

• Piers typically placed 8-12 feet apart along problem areas
• Closer spacing at corners or heavy loads
• Wider spacing in stable sections
• Always based on actual conditions

Different Pier Types

We use different pier systems based on conditions:

Pressed Steel Piers
Driven to bedrock or stable soil layers. Excellent for severe settlement.

Concrete Piers
Cast on-site for specific load conditions. Good for moderate settlement.

Pier type affects placement strategy. We match the system to your home's needs.

The Installation Process

1. Mark locations based on elevation survey
2. Excavate access points
3. Install piers to proper depth
4. Lift foundation to target elevation
5. Lock piers in place
6. Backfill and restore access areas

Post-Installation Monitoring

After pier installation:

• Foundation needs time to stabilize
• Minor settling is normal
• Cracks don't instantly close
• Movement should stop

We provide guidance on what to expect during the stabilization period.

Questions to Ask Any Foundation Company

1. How do you determine pier locations?
2. Can I see the elevation survey?
3. Why do you recommend this number of piers?
4. What happens if you over-pier?
5. What's your installation process?
6. What warranty do you provide?

Legitimate companies answer these confidently with engineering explanations, not sales pitches.

The Bottom Line

Pier placement should be:

• Data-driven from elevation surveys
• Strategically planned for structural effectiveness
• Honestly explained to homeowners
• Appropriately limited to necessary locations

At Firm Foundation Co., we place piers where measurements indicate need, not where profit maximization suggests.

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Questions about foundation repair? Call (214) 429-4088 for measurement-based assessment.