Foundation Materials

Foundation Materials

There are several types of materials used in foundations today. Some have been around for years and years, where others are just starting to spike the interest of builders and home-owners.

Following are a few web sites to look up information on the different materials used to build foundations. However, you should also expand your research by talking with at least three qualified professionals that specialize in the following:

Steel Reinforced Poured Concrete: Most commonly used to build a foundation in this day and age because it is extremely versatile.

It can also take on other forms to imitate the appearance of either brick or stone.

http://www.muextension.missouri.edu/xplor/agguides/agengin/g01700.htm

http://www.buildabetterhome.org

http://www.gcpa.org/links_to_other_sites.htm

Concrete Block: This method requires no forms or heavy equipment other than to deliver the materials to the work site. It is often the subject of debate when comparing this method with poured concrete. If you choose to go this route�make sure to hire the right person for the job. A concrete block foundation is only as strong as the reinforcements used to strengthen it.

http://www.firstsourceexchange.com/m7/documents/04060_10001146_01_SD_12311.pdf

http://www.thenaturalhome.com/surfbond.pdf

http://www.ag.ohio-state.edu/~ati_cons/258/Nest_blo.htm

http://www.askbuild.com/cgi-bin/column?046

http://www.ncma.org/

Slab: This type of foundation is generally the least expensive to build.

It often requires little excavation and cuts out the need for floor joists�unless the home is more than a single story. However, there could be drawbacks if you haven't planned for the future upgrades.

If you have future plans of adding a wet bar, extra bath, etc..., it is "WISE" to put the drain lines in before the slab is poured, not later.

Because the drain lines will be contained within a concrete slab, it is vital that the materials and installation are of high quality.

You certainly don't want to have to tear out concrete to repair or add drain lines once your home is completed.

http://www.slcc.edu/tech/techsp/arch/courses/ARCH1210/Lecture/Foundations/Types/slab.htm http://www.concretenetwork.com/concrete/slabs/

Pre-cast Concrete Foundation Walls: A new and innovative way to build a foundation.

The walls are pre-cast in a controlled environment that some experts believe could be a better foundation.

This type of foundation may also be better for extreme climates where other foundation types are merely impossible to build.

http://www.askbuild.com/cgi-bin/column?266

Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF): There are many different types of manufacturers in this field and all claim theirs to be the best.

How do you know if, in fact, you are getting the best?

Well, a good way to find out is to compare the different companies, get opinions from real home owners that have that company's system, and read up as much as you can on it.

http://www.askbuild.com/cgi-bin/column?221