Beams and girders are central to the load path of a raised foundation. They collect floor loads and transfer them through posts, piers, footings, and soil. Damage or poor bearing can produce sloping floors, bounce, gaps, and recurring finish cracks even when the perimeter foundation appears intact.
Beam vs. Girder
Both are horizontal structural members. “Girder” commonly describes a primary member supporting other beams or joists, while “beam” can describe primary or secondary members. The name matters less than understanding what the member supports and how its load reaches suitable bearing.
Common Raised-Foundation Conditions
- Wood decay from leaks or damp crawl-space soil
- Termite or pest damage
- Split, notched, drilled, or undersized framing
- Short bearing, loose shims, or displaced posts
- Corroded connectors and missing seismic ties
- Long spans, added loads, or removed supports
- Prior repairs that do not align with the load path
Warning Signs Above the Crawl Space
- Floors that sag, slope, or bounce
- Doors that bind near the affected area
- Cracks or gaps that recur after cosmetic repair
- Cabinets, trim, or walls separating from floors
- Localized dips over a beam or girder line
What an Inspection Should Document
A useful foundation inspection traces the load path, checks member condition and bearing, records floor elevations where appropriate, and reviews drainage, moisture, access, utilities, and previous work. The California Building Code addresses under-floor access and ventilation that repairs should preserve.
Common Repair Approaches
- Localized bearing correction: appropriate only where the support below remains suitable.
- Sistering or reinforcement: adds capacity when designed for the actual defect and span.
- Member replacement: removes seriously damaged framing while the structure is temporarily supported.
- Post or pier correction: restores load transfer below the member.
- Controlled house leveling: adjusts elevations when safe and included in the repair objective.
- Moisture correction: addresses leaks, runoff, soil moisture, and ventilation contributing to decay.
Permits and Engineering
Structural-member changes may require plans, permits, and inspection. Confirm the address and scope with LADBS. Do not remove or cut a beam, girder, post, or joist without understanding what it supports.
Questions for a Repair Proposal
- Which member is damaged and what does it support?
- Is the cause structural, moisture-related, pest-related, or combined?
- How will loads be supported during work?
- Are posts, piers, footings, and connections included?
- Is floor correction included or is the project stabilization only?
- Who is responsible for permits and finish repairs?
Request a Site-Specific Evaluation
NE Construction & Design evaluates foundation, concrete, drainage, and structural conditions throughout Los Angeles County. The correct scope begins with the property’s actual conditions.
Request a consultation to discuss your project.