Foundation Repair for Older Homes in Montgomery, AL

Older homes in Montgomery, Alabama have charm and character, but they often come with

foundation issues that differ from those in new construction. Historic building methods, aging

materials, and decades of soil movement create unique challenges. Foundation repair for older

homes requires specialized knowledge.

Common Problems in Older Foundations

Homes built before 1950 in Montgomery typically have pier‑and‑beam foundations with brick,

stone, or concrete block piers. Over time, these materials deteriorate. Mortar crumbles, bricks

crack, and wood posts rot. The original footings may be shallow—often only 12 to 18 inches

deep—leaving them vulnerable to clay soil movement. Additionally, older homes may have

settled unevenly over decades, causing floors to slope significantly. Montgomery Foundation

Repair Co has restored hundreds of historic Montgomery homes, from the Garden District to

Capitol Heights.

Challenges of Repairing Older Homes

Repairing an older foundation requires care. The materials may be brittle, and improper lifting

can crack original plaster walls or break historic tile floors. The foundation may have settled

into a stable position; over‑lifting can cause new damage. Also, older homes may have lead

paint or asbestos in crawl spaces, requiring special handling. Montgomery Foundation Repair

Co uses slow, controlled lifting techniques and monitors for stress. We also coordinate with

historic preservation boards when required. Our goal is to preserve the home’s character while

making it structurally sound.

Underpinning Older Homes

The most common repair for older settled homes is steel pier underpinning. Unlike concrete

piers that require large excavations, steel push piers or helical piers can be installed with

minimal disruption. The brackets are designed to fit under existing brick or stone footings. After

installation, the foundation is lifted gradually—often over several days—to allow the structure to

adjust. Montgomery Foundation Repair Co typically aims to level the foundation to within 1/2

inch of original, rather than forcing it perfectly level, which could crack historic finishes.

Working with Historic Preservation

If your older home is in a historic district (such as Old Alabama Town or Garden District), you

may need approval from a historic preservation commission before starting foundation work.

Montgomery Foundation Repair Co has experience navigating these reviews. We can design

repairs that are invisible from the exterior, preserving the home’s historic appearance. We also

document the work with photos and reports for the commission. Do not start work without

approval; you could face fines or be forced to undo the repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions