If you're a homeowner, then you know that there are a lot of things to consider when it comes to maintaining your property. Few things are more important then the foundation of your home. This needs to be done correctly the first time, because no one wants foundation repairs in the future One of the most important aspects of home ownership is having a strong foundation. So, if you're thinking about building a new home or replacing your old foundation, be sure to read on! When it comes to concrete, you want the job done right. At Calgary Concrete Pros, we have years of experience in all aspects of concrete work, from big projects like foundations to small projects like patios. We'll make sure your project is done correctly and to your specifications.
What is a Foundation?
A foundation is simply the lowest load-bearing part of your home. It serves three main purposes:
The majority of foundations in Canada are made primarily of concrete. Depending on the design, it can be poured concrete walls, a concrete pad, concrete pillars, or insulated concrete forms. Less common materials include stones, wood, or metal pilings. Rather than focusing on what a foundation is made of, foundation types are usually categorized based on the form they take — which can be very different from one another.
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There are three main types of concrete foundations: slab-on-grade, crawl space, and basement. Each type has its own set of pros and cons that you should consider when making your decision.
Slab-on-Grade Foundation
A slab-on-grade foundation is a solid concrete slab that is poured directly on the ground. This type of foundation is typically used in climates where the ground does not freeze. The slab is usually 4 to 6 inches thick and reinforced with steel rebar or wire mesh.
Pros
Cons
A basement foundation is the most expensive and most permanent type of foundation. It is typically 8-10 feet tall and has walls made of concrete, brick, or stone. A basement foundation provides the most headroom and is the best option if you plan on finishing your basement.
Cons
A crawlspace foundation is similar to a pier and beam foundation, but it consists of a crawlspace instead of a basement. A crawlspace is a small space between the ground and the first floor of a house that is typically only large enough for a person to crawl through.
You can choose whether of these three types of concrete foundation you want for your home. Hiring Calgary Concrete Pros will ensure that your foundation is properly made and will last for many years.
Deep vs. Shallow Commercial Foundations
There are two main classifications of structural foundations:
Shallow Foundation
Shallow foundations are constructed close to the earth’s surface at shallow depths. While deep foundations transfer loads to subsurface layers, shallow foundations transfer the structure’s weight directly to the earth at a surface level. A foundation is considered shallow when its width exceeds its embedment depth.
Builders generally use shallow foundations for lightweight structures, such as low-rise commercial buildings and one- or two-story homes. These foundations are quicker and less costly to install than deep foundations.
Some common types of shallow foundations are:
Deep Foundation
Unlike their shallow counterparts, deep foundations are built at higher depths and transfer loads to deep rock strata underground. Builders use deep foundations when the surface soil’s load capacity is too low to support the structure. These foundations are cast, driven or bored into place for maximum stability. They are deeper than they are wide — their depth-to-width ratios usually exceed 4 to 5.
Deep foundations are normally used for:
Foundation repair is fixing foundation that has settled (downward movement) or heaved (upward movement). This is done through various stabilization, lifting, and leveling solutions depending on the source of the problem.
Here are some signs your foundation may need to be repaired:
Cracks appear in the foundation or concrete slabs.
Your basement has leaks or rotting walls.
Basement walls are bowing or bulging on the inside or outside.
Your interior walls or ceilings have cracks in the drywall.
Your chimney is cracked or leaning.
Your windows or doors are sticking and won’t close properly.
Left untreated, foundation issues can get worse, resulting in major structural problems for all elements of your home.
Maintenance is usually performed every 1-2 years. Depending on the type of sealer used, it may need to be applied anywhere between once every 1-2 years and once every 5-10 years or more.
Concrete takes about 28 days to be fully cured. Differences in weather, mix, and other items can slightly change the timeframe of the curing period. The general rule of thumb for concrete drying is 28 days to dry for every 1 inch of slab thickness.
Concrete foundations usually last around 80-100 years.
Signs of foundation problems include:
Cracks in the foundation or concrete slabs
Leaks or rotting walls in the basement
Bowing or bulging basement walls
Cracks in the drywall of interior walls or ceilings
A cracked or leaning chimney
Doors or windows that stick or won't close properly
Yes, you can pour concrete over concrete this is known as a concrete overlay.
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