Types of House Foundations in Addison, TX; Are Poured Concrete Slab Foundations Better than Raised?

When it comes to building a house, it can be an exciting new step. However, this project will require quite a bit of research. Even if you are purchasing a home that has already been built, you should know what kinds of foundations are out there so you can decide which one you are looking for. Dallas Foundation Repair is here to talk about different types of foundations that can be found supporting homes.

Basement Foundation

If you are looking at a house with a basement, or interested in building a home with a basement, your foundation will need to be laid in a hole that is about 8 feet deep. The walls are built on a concrete slab and are usually built using cinder blocks. The walls are usually constructed first and then the concrete slab is poured last. These are durable foundations and are highly fire resistant as well as water resistant. Many homes like to have a basement because of the added square footage and value. They are usually easier to keep cool as they are underground as well.

Crawlspace Foundation

If you live in an area that sees water accumulation, a crawlspace foundation may be the best option. The house is built a few feet off the ground using a cinder block and brick facing. The reason it works so well with water is due to the fact that it is off the ground. If water starts to accumulate, it is usually not affected because of that space between the house and the ground. They are also less likely to be affected by termites because they are off the ground as well.

Pier and Beam Foundation

This type of foundation is built by setting wood posts or concrete piers deep into the ground to bear the weight of the home. A pier and beam foundation doesn’t rest on the ground but is about 18 inches above it. The utility and plumbing are usually installed in this space that is much like a crawlspace. This foundation is usually used on smaller homes as it isn’t as sturdy as other types of foundations. It is not recommended in areas that experience earthquakes or hurricanes.

Concrete Slab Foundation

Slab foundations are a flat slab of concrete that are poured on the ground with the house built directly on top of it. They are used in areas that experience extreme heat, like the Dallas area, because they aren’t as susceptible to cracking as the ground freezes in these areas. The concrete slab is formed into a beam that is about 2 feet deep around the perimeter of the foundation. The rest of the foundation is about 6 inches of concrete. Within the foundation there is rebar and mesh embedded for added support.

Slab Foundation Repair in Lewisville, Flower Mound, Carrollton, Plano, Richardson, Grapevine, Garland, Mesquite, Grand Prairie, Arlington & Greater Dallas, Texas

If you have a slab foundation that is need of repair, you can call on the pros at Dallas Foundation Repair. We have extensive experience in repairing slab foundations. Call us today!