Did you know that the United States government issues around 1.8 million home building permits per month? If you are thinking about building a house, you will need permits, land, and utilities.
Once you are ready to start building, the first step will be to choose a foundation. The right foundation for your house will depend on the soil, the weight of your house, and your preferences.
What are some common types of home foundations? Keep reading to learn everything you need to know before choosing a house foundation.
Basement Foundation
One of the most common types of foundations is a basement foundation. Basement foundations are deeper than most other types of foundations. They extend around seven or eight feet below the ground.
To build a basement foundation, a general contractor will dig up the ground, build the walls, and then fill in the dirt. Most basement walls are made out of concrete or cinder blocks.
Some of the biggest benefits of choosing a basement foundation are that you get extra living space, you increase the house value, and you can have easy access to your utilities.
While there are many benefits to basement foundations, they can be one of the most expensive foundation types. They are also more susceptible to water and mold problems if you live in a damp environment.
Concrete Slab Foundation
Another common type of house foundation is a concrete slab foundation. Contractors build concrete foundations by pouring a concrete slab that is four to eight inches thick.
Some contractors may add bricks, concrete blocks, and metal pipes to make the foundation stronger. One of the biggest benefits of choosing a poured concrete foundation is that it is affordable.
Because concrete slabs are affordable, they are the most common type of foundation. A concrete slab foundation may not be a good option if you live in an area where it freezes often.
Crawl Space Foundation
Crawl space foundations are like basement foundations, but they aren’t as deep. Instead of extending eight feet into the ground, crawl space foundations are a few feet deep.
To build a crawl space foundation, contractors start by pouring a concrete slab. Once they pour the slab, they build the walls and fill in the dirt. Crawl space foundations are tall enough for contractors to crawl around in the space.
One of the biggest benefits of building a crawl space foundation is placing your utilities in the crawl space. Like basements, crawl spaces are more likely to experience water damage and mold problems if you live in a wet environment.
Now You Know the Common Types of Home Foundations
If you have plans to build a house, one of the first steps will be to choose a foundation. Some of the most common types of home foundations include basement, concrete, and crawl space foundations.
Did you enjoy reading this article on home foundations? If so, check out the home improvement category to learn more about how to build a foundation.
