Although concrete walls and slabs rank among the most popular types of foundations, the vast majority of new construction relied on pier and beam designs until the 1960s. Pier and beam, commonly called as “post and beam,” was viewed as the most effective and cost-efficient way to elevate a structure above grade.
In many parts of the country, pier and beam designs remain the preferred method. But the question contractors may need answered is whether pier and beam foundations are the right choice for accessibility.
A pier and beam foundation can be employed for a wide range of reasons. But there are at least two environmental conditions that make them preferable to concrete basements and slabs. These include areas that are prone to water swells and unstable soil conditions.
If you have ever driven along the coast, you’ll see many homes elevated on pier and beam foundations. The reason for that construction element is not just to improve picturesque views. The primary reasons for elevated homes stem from coastal flooding due to sea surges and severe weather, such as hurricanes and tropical storms. This same reasoning applies inland, where rivers and creeks may overflow and cause flooding. In some cases, hard ground conditions lead to puddling that would flood a basement. In essence, new construction homes are elevated above the high-water mark using pier and beam foundations.
The second most common reason to employ a pier and beam design is clay being close to the surface. Clay presents a risk to the structural integrity of concrete footings under walled basements. It also increases the likelihood a slab will crack. Although a layer of clay a few feet below grade may seem hard-packed and reliable, the material shifts. When that occurs, the damage done to new concrete slabs can be substantial.
While many coastal homes are elevated high enough to park a vehicle underneath, those comprise only a fraction of pier and beam construction. It may come as something of a surprise, but big states such as Texas, Colorado and North Carolina, among others, leverage this type of foundation due to soil and flooding conditions. Only a few feet may elevate inland homes, most times. In terms of people who use wheelchairs, walkers or have physical challenges, there are several ways to make new construction homes accessible.
The decision to build a home or commercial building on a pier and beam foundation does not have to detract from accessibility. Structures at low elevations can accommodate the same ramps and wheelchair lifts as those using other foundation types. Homebuyers that want ocean views will probably gravitate to accessible elevators as an added value and one that increases leisure enjoyment into their golden years.
Ted draws energy and joy from building synergetic relationships with his Clients. Ted's nature is graciously gregarious and persevering; he's honest; and he's been dedicated to a substantial list of clientele throughout his 25 years in the hospitality business and almost two years as a REALTOR. His passion is creating a sincere, successful relationship with people.
Ted grew up in a family of Realtors in central Indiana, earned a degree in economics and philosophy from the University of Notre Dame, and jumped into all aspects of the restaurant business. His ensuing hospitality career path eventually led him into the Event Management Sales & Service role in hotels and quickly guided him to Los Angeles, San Francisco, and finally to a luxury resort in the Napa Valley, where he, his husband, and their dog have resided for almost a decade now.
The irony is not lost on Ted that his ‘growth’ journey has culminated in“living happily ever after” in an agricultural area with a small-town feel and sense of community strikingly reminiscent of his youth…and as a REALTOR nonetheless!