types of foundations
Many types of foundations can be used for your home. Some people might not know what type is best for their needs, so we have created this blog post to help!
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The Best Types of Foundations for Your Home
Many types of foundations can be used for your home. Some people might not know what type is best for their needs, so we have created this blog post to help! We will discuss the different types of foundations and how they work, as well as some pros and cons associated with each one. Hopefully, you find it helpful in deciding which foundation is right for you.
Concrete Slab
Concrete slab foundations are a permanent type of foundation and can be used for both new construction as well as retrofitting an existing structure. They are often installed by pouring concrete on the ground to form a solid base that will support the weight of your home or commercial building. If you need additional height, concrete slabs may also be reinforced with steel beams (called "post-tensioning"), which can add up to six feet in height without adding significant cost. The disadvantage is this type of foundation requires placement over level terrain so it doesn't settle unevenly.
Crawl space
Crawl spaces are usually found under homes built before the 1960s when houses were constructed on sloping terrain where the crawl space is on a lower level than the main floor. This type of foundation can be problematic because it's difficult to access and often has moisture problems that are exacerbated if your home gets wet (e.g., from flooding).
Pier Foundation
Pier foundations support themselves by being firmly embedded in bedrock or other firm soil, usually at intervals no more than 24 feet apart horizontally along the length of the house. A pier foundation transfers loads through columns called piers, which vary from one-half foot deep for smaller houses up to six feet deep if you're building a commercial structure such as an office building with many floors. The disadvantage with this type of foundation is cost: installing even just one pier can cost up to $20,000.
Cement Foundation
Cement foundations are a good option if you're building on soft soil such as sand or clay and want your home to be more level than it would be with an earth-berm foundation.
Earth-Berm Foundation
Earth berms can't support the weight of modern homes because they settle over time but this type of foundation is still popular for centuries-old structures that have been updated by adding floors and other features. The advantage of the earth berm is it's relatively cheap compared to most others at around $8000-$12,000 depending on size while also not requiring any digging into terrains like a pier or concrete slab foundations do.
Underground Basement Foundation
Underground basements are usually made from reinforced concrete or steel and have walls that run below your home at a depth of about 12 to 16 feet. This type of foundation can be expensive because the excavation process is extensive and typically includes installing underground retaining walls, which makes it impractical for homes with flat terrain. The best type of foundation for your home depends on the needs and function of your home. Foundation experts suggest that you consult a professional appraiser, engineer, or architect to determine which type of foundation will work best with your dwelling. Foundation experts can also help you determine the right materials for your foundation. Foundation construction typically begins with excavating dirt, and then formwork is constructed around the surface area of the living space to be supported by the new foundation. The next step in foundation installation is pouring concrete slabs on top of piles or mat foundations that have been previously installed at a depth to create an even thickness throughout this layer.