Foundations

Let’s start with the foundation. The foundation is unique at each location. The soils are different and the surrounding slopes are different. Each location must be analyzed on its own and engineered to its specific conditions. Most builders pull out the same ole foundation plan that they are used to. Don’t get me wrong, there is merit in all foundations, but you must analyze each location for types of soils that will affect your home. We will raise or lower your new home based on the potential drain field that may shed damaging run-off water toward your home. We pour only low slump concrete for foundations and flatwork. Many contractors add 50 to 100 gallons of water to a single truck which weakens the mix, but we don’t allow that. Also we use above code 3,000 PSI strength concrete. Steel and load bearing walls are where special considerations need to be made. If you do not know how much the above floor loads weigh, then you do not know how much footing or spot pier that you need to support that load. Who’s job is this? Unless you employ an engineer, it is The Builders job. We are qualified.

Also in the foundation is where you start the energy program! We will insert an insulation thermal break around the perimeter of house in the footing. This will break that cold winter frost that starts by freezing the surrounding concrete and transferring through the concrete into your home. We also place a 6 mil visquene below the concrete slab. This will stop water from migrating into your house through the concrete slab. By some testing, it was determined that in a 2000 sqft house that approximately 12 gallons of water entered every day. We stop that amount and therefore do not have to try and get rid of that water through dehumidification in the Summer months.