The correct foundation method depends on the type of project as well as the
specific soil conditions.
Questions regarding foundation methods are a common occurrence.
We will explore four of the most common methods in this article. Discussing the
differences between “Insulating Concrete Forms (ICF)” and poured concrete can also be quite important at this early stage but we’ll save that for another time. Be sure to read our article “Soil Bearing Evaluations” before proceeding with any foundation method.
The Four Giants:
-
-
-
-
-
- Slab-on-Grade
- Frost walls
- Full basements
- Helical piles
-
-
-
-
Slab-on-Grade
These are typical where the client doesn’t require/desire a basement. They are used for garages, hangars and accessory buildings but can also be used as the primary foundation for a new home. The top soil is removed from the site, compacted granular is layed, the slab is formed and concrete is poured. A healthy amount of steel reinforcement and rigid insulation is typically associated with this foundation method. Slabs of this nature can be heated or unheated, depending on the project. As per the Ontario Building Code, an engineer’s seal is required for any slab-on-grade over 600 sf in area, regardless of the structure that will be resting on top.
Frost walls
The frost depth of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry has been established at approximately 4’-6’’. In layman terms, that’s the minimum depth to dig so a structure doesn’t move with the seasons. Additional precautions are made, such as adding rigid insulation, when the 4’-6’’ depth isn’t met (see the “Slab-on Grade” explanation above).
A sloping elevation around the installation site is one reason why a frost wall may be more beneficial than a slab-on-grade foundation. Frost walls provide the opportunity to have mechanical (heating/cooling/plumbing, etc.) services under the building without the requirement of having a full basement. They are also an alternative method to the slab-on-grade foundations where excavation depth is limited by the site conditions (ex;
water tables are high).
Full Basements
As the most common foundation type for new homes, full basements allow a third floor
to be included under the main storey of a home and include the majority of the home’s
building services (furnace, hot water tank, etc.) as well as adding living space. This is
typically where we start discussing the differences between “Insulating Concrete Forms
(ICF)” and traditional poured concrete foundations.
Helical Piles
Also referred to as “screw piles”, they are a pre-engineered product that are less invasive than the last three foundation methods. They are most commonly used for decks, patios and sunrooms while still being strong enough to support additions and new homes.They come in a variety of sizes (and strengths) and can be installed even in tight spaces (where bringing in a conventional excavator would be difficult).
Let us help you!
We would be happy to assist you in choosing the best foundation method for your
project. Once the soil bearing evaluation is received and the foundation method chosen, the architectural drawings are ready to be started!
Let the digging begin!
