Types of Foundations

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Joseph Handy - 20 Dec 2006 17:17 GMT

Greetings,
I was wondering if someone could explain to me the advantages and
disadvantages of poured foundations vs. block foundations. I am interested
only in building on a full basement but will likely build a garage on a slab
as well so please include info. about slabs as well.

How accessible are each type to the inexperienced owner-builder?

What are some of the options available for forms?

Which provides greater structural stability and long term durability?

Which has greater potential for insulation?

Which provides better moisture protection?

Any recommendations for masonry books, websites suppliers?

Thanks,
JH

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Bob Morrison - 20 Dec 2006 20:50 GMT

In a previous post Joseph Handy wrote...

> Greetings,
> I was wondering if someone could explain to me the advantages and
[quoted text clipped - 3 lines]
>
> How accessible are each type to the inexperienced owner-builder?

Neither system is very easy for an inexperienced builder.

> What are some of the options available for forms?

You may be able to rent them, but I think you should subcontract out the
concrete work to someone with experience. This is something you don't
want to screw up.

> Which provides greater structural stability and long term durability?

Depends on climate, soil moisture content, chemistry of the soil. In
general, a properly poured concrete foundation will be stronger and will
outlast a masonry foundation.

> Which has greater potential for insulation?

Same. In either case you will need to furr out the inside, unless you use
something like ICF, which could be a good choice for habitable space in
the basement.

> Which provides better moisture protection?

A properly moisture proofed wall of either material with proper drainage
will work just fine.

> Any recommendations for masonry books, websites suppliers?

Not unless you want to learn to be a structural engineer.

Signature

Bob Morrison, PE, SE
R L Morrison Engineering Co
Structural & Civil Engineering
Poulsbo WA
bob at rlmorrisonengr dot com

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v8z - 21 Dec 2006 14:43 GMT

Foundations and concrete flat work are two things best left to pros - they
have to be done right the first time.

If you are located in the eastern half of the US, take a look into this
system http://www.superiorwalls.com/ - they offer a complete service that
includes engineering, soil analysis, design, and installation. Precast,
Pre-insulated, and installed in one day after excavation is completed. Cost
competitive with CMU and cast-in-place.

> Greetings,
> I was wondering if someone could explain to me the advantages and
[quoted text clipped - 16 lines]
> Thanks,
> JH

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Raider Bill - 27 Dec 2006 17:25 GMT

> Foundations and concrete flat work are two things best left to pros - they
> have to be done right the first time.

I agree with this! I have worked with concrete crews and have nothing
but respect for the hard work and skills they bring to the job site.
I'm not afraid to do most any building skill but leave this to the
pros.

Once you order the mud and them trucks start lineing up you want to
make sure that it gets poured fast and right.

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Homeowner Forum / Construction / December 2006

Types of Foundations