Which
materials would stand up best in your area?
Proper House
Foundation Construction Procedures:
"You
can't fool a fool"...remember that. When you know the
proper procedures, you are more capable of making a
well-informed decision.
Sand
to Concrete Ratio:
There
are specific ratios for the proper cement mixture for house
foundations, sidewalks, patios, and driveways.
If
the there is too much, or not enough, sand in your concrete it
won't be very stable and your foundation could crumble.
Reinforcements:
Know
the correct way to add steel reinforcements as well as posts,
pilings, footing depths, and retaining walls.
Correct
Aggregate:
Material
and depth as a base under poured concrete.
Radon
Gas:
Find
out the recommended methods that should be used to prevent
exposure into your home when radon is a threat in your area.
Window
and Door Placement within Foundation:
Prevent
unnecessary re-construction by carefully planning widow and
door sizes and placements.
Fire
Escape:
All
basements should have several options for easy escape. It
could be a door that leads directly to the outdoors, or fire
exits through egressed windows positioned at several areas
around the entire basement.
Foundation
Waterproofing:
The
exterior of a basement foundation should be properly sealed
prior to any backfilling of dirt around your home.
Find
out what method the contractor uses and get a guarantee in
writing.
Proper
Drainage:
To
prevent water seepage into the basement, all house foundations
should have:
A
proper underground drainage system surrounding the entire
home
