Working From The Ground Up: 3 Types of Concrete Foundations

The most common synonym for a foundation is the base. Principles and buildings both have a base, and these are both called foundations. In a building or home, the foundation is the lowest load-bearing section. Because of its load-bearing function, it has to be strong and stable.

Permanent structures in Salt Lake City lay on concrete foundations that follow the building regulations of Utah. There are three different types of concrete foundations.

Slab-on-grade

This is for areas where the temperature does not get low enough to freeze the ground. Enough concrete is poured in one go over reinforcing rods and wire mesh to form a solid slab that will not crack. The edges are thicker than the inside for the footing. It usually lies on a bed of gravel for better drainage. This is a good kind of foundation for the dry, arid climate of Salt Lake City.

T-shaped

This is a better concrete foundation type for cold climates where the ground reaches the freezing point. A footing stays lower than the frost line and the walls stay on top. It is better if the footing is wider than the wall for better support. The T-shaped foundation is then placed and cured before the slab is poured.

Insulated

In areas where the climate is very cold and the structure is heated, it may be a good idea to have frost-protected foundation, Styrke Construction says. A sheet of polystyrene insulation lies on the bed of gravel and another one on the outside of the wall to insulate the foundation from the frozen ground. This will only work if the building is heated. This is especially good for buildings on slab-on grade concrete foundations.

To build your home, consult with a concrete foundation specialist in Salt Lake City. The specialist can recommend what kind of concrete foundation you need for your home.