There are probably a few reasons why Becky chose to get a slab foundation with her new home that’s being built. Perhaps it’s the price or the low maintenance, but one thing is for sure: she did her homework. Who is Becky? We just made her up to make that example, but there are people like Becky all over the place! And after reading this, you will be well informed enough to decide which foundation your new home will have.
There are 3 MAIN types of foundation: slab, crawlspace, and basement. This is not to say these are the only types, but really, they are the only types you need to worry about. Each one offers pros and cons with a few things to consider. Regardless of the foundation you choose, your foundation needs to support the structure above, act as a barrier to water and soil, and keep the groundwater out!
Your Slab Foundation
This is by far the one of the most common types of foundations and it requires the least amount of prep on the lot space to begin building. When comparing to other foundation types, installation is simple, making them a popular choice with a low-price tag. The process begins with concrete footers poured 24 inches below expected finish grade. After pouring the footers, two layers of concrete block are laid atop the footers. All the internal piping is installed after the blocks are laid and a rock filler is added. Finishing touches are made by four inches of concrete poured on top.
Advantages: Slab foundation is generally low in cost, and is really your most inexpensive option. If you need to maintain a low budget, this is a great choice. Another advantage is that this foundation type requires the least amount of maintenance.
Disadvantages: Slab foundations offer minimal protection to your home from storms and other extreme weather conditions. Repairs also tend to be rather expensive. Being that the plumbing systems are below the slab, repairs are costly because you must first break through the concrete slab to reach piping. New technology like pex plumbing systems can lead to access being easier than in the past.
Your Crawlspace Foundation
These foundation types tend to be elevated only a few feet off the ground. Building a crawlspace foundation will be less expensive compared to a basement, but will not save on time when compared. When looking at the process, it is similar to slab foundations: a footing is poured, with blocks placed out to create the foundation to support the walls of the structure.
Advantages: Unlike the slab foundation, all of your wiring, piping and ductwork will be easily accessible, which makes it less expensive for repairs and upgrades in the future. This goes into the next advantage, which is that the floors of your home will probably be warmer due to the crawlspace being conditioned.
Disadvantages: A large drawback to the crawlspace foundation is that it is very prone to moisture if you do not get it closed off the right way. Even with vapor-barriers, it is still possible for mold and moisture to build. Like slab foundations, the crawlspace offers your home little to no protection from bad weather. If you so choose this option, make sure you insulate the exterior walls of your crawlspace. If you are in the Tennessee area and need your crawlspace looked at, give Barrier Waterproofing Systems a call at (615) 257-1060 | (931) 536-1168.
Your Basement Foundation
Quite literally speaking, a basement is a hole that is 8 feet (or deeper) that ends in a concrete slab. It used to be that basement walls were built with cedar blocks, resulting in structural failures and leaks as they got older. These days, basements are built with poured concrete walls, which have eliminated common problems related with structural integrity and moisture saturation.
Advantages: A finished basement not only provides additional square footage at a much lower cost than other parts of the home, but it is going to pair well with the changing seasons, providing an energy efficient living quarters. It also gives way to easier access for technicians to make the repairs needed in your home, usually standing up rather than crawling around in the crawlspace. The basement is also great protection from storms, as well as keeping your home in great shape after the storm has left. It is a way for your property to be anchored to the ground while encompassing the foundation below the areas of the frostline (preserving integrity over time).
Disadvantages: The biggest downfall of the basement foundation is the cost it takes to build, and even more so if you choose to get it finished with drywall and all the necessary things to make it livable. Be sure to get it hooked up with a sump pump as to not get your basement flooded. Battery backup, generators, and water-flow backups are highly recommended to prevent flooding. The best case scenario is to provide a natural path for drainage out of the basement. Lastly, the lack of natural light will lead anyone staying in this living space to go bonkers, that is, if you are spending a large portion of your stay down there. This is a smaller issue of the bunch, but can be big for some families.
It all boils down to your personal preference and your budget. Some people might find it better to go with a less expensive option or just don’t have the money, whereas others find it an investment to spend more on a foundation. Whichever foundation you choose, if you find that you have a problem or need a quote, give Barrier Waterproofing Systems a call at (615) 257-1060 | (931) 536-1168.
