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The posts and piers under your home support the foundation and floor structure of your house. They help distribute the weight of the home evenly to the ground, preventing sagging, shifting, or structural failure. Specifically, they support:

John Laforme and YC from SoCal seismic construction discuss the importance of posts, piers, and beams in home foundations. They explain that these interior elements support the floor joists and walls, and can face issues like spalling, deterioration, and misalignment, similar to foundation problems. They highlight common defects such as undermining due to plumbing work, settling due to moisture, and water intrusion causing rot. The average cost to replace a post and pier is around $400, depending on accessibility and other factors. They also discuss the pros and cons of different foundation types and the comprehensive inspections conducted during retrofitting.

1. Step-by-Step Process:
   1. Assess the Damage
   • Inspect the post and pier for signs of rot, cracks, or shifting.
   • Check if only the post needs replacing or if the pier itself is damaged.
2. 2. Provide Temporary Support
   • Place a hydraulic jack under the beam near the damaged post.
   • Slowly lift just enough to relieve pressure on the damaged post (do not over-lift to prevent structural damage).
   • Insert temporary support (jack stands or a temporary wood beam).
3. 3. Remove the Damaged Post & Pier
   • If the post is wood, cut it out carefully with a saw.
   • If the pier is cracked or sinking, dig it out and remove any debris.
4. 4. Install a New Pier (if needed)
   • Dig a hole below the old pier (usually 18-24 inches deep, depending on soil conditions).
   • Pour a concrete footing and let it cure for at least 24-48 hours.
   • Place a concrete pier block or pour a new pier using a sonotube.
   • Ensure the pier is level and aligned properly.
5. 5. Install a New Post
   • Cut a new pressure-treated post to the correct height.
   • Secure the post to the new pier using a metal post base.
   • Attach the top of the

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John Laforme
Certified CREIA Inspector Member #0155263
Home Inspection Authority LLC

Former President of CREIA Mid Valley Chapter
Former Vice President of CREIA Mid Valley Chapter

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