Foundation Walls

Building a foundation wall is important because it provides support for the entire structure you are creating. Due to the fact that foundation walls are probably the most important part of the structure, they should be carefully planned and constructed. Cracks may appear in the foundation walls if they are not constructed correctly, and the structure may begin to settle as a result.

What is a crawl space foundation, and how does it work?

To put it simply, a crawl space foundation is a small space that is typically so small that you must crawl into it in order to get inside. It is most often associated with (or is replacing) a basement foundation.

What materials are used to construct crawl space walls?

Concrete cast-in-place crawl space walls, concrete masonry units, or alternative systems such as insulated concrete forms are commonly used in the construction of crawl space walls (ICFs). Crawl space walls must be capable of withstanding lateral loads from the soil as well as vertical loads from the structure above them.

What is foundation encapsulation, and how does it work?

It is the installation of a heavy-duty polyethylene barrier to cover the crawl space, including the floors, foundation walls, and possibly even the ceiling, in order to protect it from the elements. An encapsulation barrier could be compared to the lining in your swimming pool that keeps water from leaking out into the water.

What is the lifespan of crawl space foundations?

Although both crawl space and basement foundations can be expected to last 50 years or longer if built correctly, basement and crawl space foundations typically require more maintenance in order to prevent mold and insect infestations.

Is it better to have a crawl space or a slab?

In a damp climate, a concrete slab foundation is preferable; however, if your home is located in a flood-prone area or receives a lot of rain, a crawl space foundation is the best option. In contrast to a slab foundation, which can transfer water through the slab, a crawl space foundation that is well-protected is less likely to be flooded.