Pier And Beam vs. Slab Foundations: What Works Best In Temple’s Soil?

Foundation Repair Insights In Temple

If you own a home in Temple, TX — or you’re thinking about buying one — understanding your home’s foundation is more important than you might think.

One of the most common questions we hear from Temple homeowners is:

“Is a pier and beam foundation or a slab foundation better for Temple’s soil?”

At G.L. Hunt Foundation Repair, we repair foundations years after they’ve been installed in Temple soil. And after years of repairing both pier and beam and slab foundations, we’ve learned a lot about how each holds up to Central Texas soil and weather.

If you’re wondering what to expect from your foundation over time, this guide is for you.

Why Temple’s Soil Makes Foundation Choice A Big Deal

Temple, TX, sits right in the heart of Central Texas — an area with some of the most complex and unpredictable soil profiles in the state. Unlike other regions that may have a single dominant soil type, Temple homeowners can experience a wide range of conditions, sometimes even within the same neighborhood or property.

Expansive Clay Soils

Much of Temple, especially in lower-lying areas, is built on expansive clay — the kind of soil that swells when it absorbs moisture and then contracts significantly during dry spells. That constant push-and-pull movement puts serious stress on home foundations. Over time, we often see cracks in walls, uneven flooring and even full structural shifts in homes built on these soils.

Rocky Limestone Layers

Other parts of Temple — particularly areas with higher elevation or closer to the Hill Country — sit on rocky limestone beds. While these soils may be more stable in terms of moisture movement, they bring their own set of challenges. Rocky soil can be uneven, hard to excavate and create isolated pressure points beneath a foundation. If a slab or pier isn’t properly supported, it can lead to differential settling.

A Mixed Bag

In many cases, Temple homes sit on a combination of clay and rock, which makes things even trickier. One section of a foundation might be sitting on firm rock, while another portion rests on shifting clay. This uneven support is a common reason we’re called in to correct tilted or sinking foundations — especially in older neighborhoods where soil preparation wasn’t as advanced during original construction.

Add Weather To The Mix

Temple’s weather only amplifies the problem. Hot, dry summers can cause clay soils to shrink dramatically, leaving voids under your home. Then, when heavy rains hit — as they often do in Central Texas — that same soil swells rapidly, exerting pressure back up against the foundation. This constant cycle of expansion and contraction is a major cause of foundation movement in the area.

Slab Foundations In Temple: What We See Most Often

Slab-on-grade foundations are very common in Temple, especially in newer neighborhoods. They offer a clean, modern look — but from a foundation repair perspective, they can come with some challenges in Temple’s soil.

Pier And Beam Foundations in Temple: Easier To Repair, But Not Problem-Free

Pier and beam foundations are common in older Temple homes — especially in neighborhoods built before the 1970s. From a repair standpoint, pier and beam systems are often easier (and less expensive) to adjust when the soil shifts.

Why We Like Pier and Beam (As Repair Experts)

• Easier to level or adjust when the soil moves
• Plumbing and electrical are more accessible through the crawl space
• Repairs are often quicker and less invasive

But There Are Drawbacks Too:

• Moisture problems in the crawl space if not properly ventilated
• Wood rot or pest damage to beams and joists
• Settling or shifting piers in expansive clay soils

Pier and beam foundations offer more flexibility to handle Temple’s shifting soil, but like any foundation, they require regular maintenance to perform their best.

G.L. Hunt Tip: Signs It’s Time To Call A Foundation Expert

No matter your foundation type, call us if you notice:

• Cracks in walls, ceilings, or flooring
• Sticking doors or windows
• Uneven or sloping floors
• Gaps around the exterior of your home
• Cracks in your brickwork
• Signs of moisture or standing water under your home

Trust G.L. Hunt To Help Keep Your Temple Home Strong

We’ve seen it all when it comes to Temple’s foundations — and we’re here to help. Whether you have a pier and beam or a slab foundation, the sooner you address issues, the easier (and less expensive) repairs usually are.

Our free estimates give you honest feedback, real solutions and peace of mind.