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Why Is A Concrete Foundation Necessary?

A foundation built by concrete foundation contractors Belton TX is essential to a house or building, as it increases the stability of the structure and helps prevent lateral movements. A proper foundation design must transmit loads evenly to the soil and prevent settlement. This helps prevent differential settlements, especially in areas with uneven load distribution. In addition, a proper foundation design should provide enough stability to prevent water runoff.

Slab Foundations are More Common in the Southern States 

One of the major benefits of a concrete foundation is the reduced risk of damage caused by freezing. This type of foundation is more common in southern states, where freezing temperatures are unlikely to cause cracks. However, this type of foundation has some drawbacks, including the potential for cracks. In addition, if your house is constructed on a slab foundation, you may need to install heating and cooling units on the ground floor, which could add to the cost.

Another advantage of a concrete foundation is its low maintenance requirement. A concrete slab does not require a crawl space, so it requires less maintenance. Moreover, a slab-on-grade foundation is cheaper than a subgrade foundation and may offer better protection against termites.

They Prevent Settlement

Whether you’re building a new home or remodeling an old one, protecting your structure from the settlement is essential. This common problem can lead to various problems, including cracked walls and uneven floors. In many cases, it’s not easy to detect, but there are signs you can look for.

First of all, it’s essential to understand what causes settlement. There are two types of settlement: differential and uniform. Disparate settlements affect different areas of the building at different rates. Unlike differential settlement, uniform settlement tends to occur uniformly throughout the structure. This type of settlement can have a minimal impact on the structure’s structural integrity, but it can cause problems for plumbing and water supply lines. In addition, it can cause doors and windows to jam and affect the building’s exterior and interior.

In general, foundation settlement is the result of the soil beneath the building no longer being able to support the weight of the home. This is similar to the sandcastle that you build at the beach – the tides can affect it, and it will eventually start to settle. Soil changes in moisture content can also cause foundation settlement. Clay soils can weaken over time when they become too saturated with water.

They Prevent pest Animals from Burrowing Under the Foundation

Concrete foundations are 900 to 1800 mm deep and have shear sides. These walls are very thick, making it difficult for pest animals to burrow under the foundation. However, removing pest animals as soon as possible is essential if you find pest animals. The best way to do this is to treat the foundation with a concrete repellent.

Concrete is also a natural barrier to pest animals. Rats and other animals can chew through concrete and gain access to cracks and rough edges. Therefore, you should seal cracks and areas where these animals can get in.

They Prevent Water Runoff from Undermining the Slab

A gravel slab is a great way to prevent water runoff from undermining the foundation slab. Water pools beneath the slab can erode the soil and lead to cracks in the slab. Gravel prevents this from happening by acting as a moisture barrier. It also prevents water from wicking through the slab.

They Provide Extra Functional Space

Concrete foundations are commonly used to raise a house off the ground. This provides extra space, especially in warmer climates. In addition to the added space, a house with a raised foundation is more relaxed. Swanson, a television dinner pioneer, first introduced this concept to the public in 1953.

These foundations are common and inexpensive. They are also ideal for homes with a level lot or minimal slope. However, their low cost can limit remodeling, electrical repair, and storage space. A concrete foundation is an excellent choice if you don’t need the extra space, but it can make future remodels difficult.