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What are Concrete Piers for Foundation Repair?

Concrete piers are a common foundation repair solution in Texas used to stabilize sinking structures, particularly residential slab-on-grade homes. This method involves using hydraulically driven pre-cast concrete sections to address differential settlement caused by the state’s expansive clay soils.

The installation process typically includes the following steps:

  1. Excavating access points underneath the foundation.
  2. Positioning concrete pier sections sequentially.
  3. Using hydraulic jacks to press the sections into stable soil strata until they reach refusal.
  4. Utilizing pier caps to ensure proper load transfer for the foundation.

While concrete piers are highly resistant to expansive clays and offer a durability of over 50 years, the installation usually takes 1 to 2 days per home. In Texas regions like Dallas, San Antonio, and Houston, these piers must be driven deep enough to account for the active soil zone, which can reach depths of 12 to 15 feet. Because soil conditions and home sizes vary, costs are typically determined through custom quotes following a site evaluation by structural engineers.

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