House Foundations

In Partnership with

Any structure is only as good as its foundation. When building, you first lay the foundation. When rehabbing houses, you first inspect the foundation. Problems there could be compounded throughout the structure. Here's a quick list of the various types of foundations.

Types of House Foundations

1. Slab Foundation

A slab foundation is a flat, concrete pad poured directly on the ground.

2. Crawl Space Foundation

A crawl space foundation elevates the home off the ground, creating a small space underneath.

3. Basement Foundation

A basement foundation includes a full or partial underground level.

4. Pier and Beam Foundation

Pier and beam foundations use concrete piers and wooden beams to support the home.

5. Piled Foundation

Piled foundations use long, sturdy columns driven deep into the ground.

Have you ever wondered why most houses in northern areas have a basement, decreasing in frequency until in some southern states you rarely see them? It has to do with water.

In the north, the foundation has be be established below the frost line, so the frost heave each winter won’t affect the structure. If you dig four feet to get below the frost line, it doesn’t take much more to create a cellar or a basement.

In the south, particularly in Florida, dig three feet and you might be into the water table. It’s nearly impossible to create a water tight structure below that level.

Each type of foundation has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The best choice depends on factors like soil conditions, budget, and the specific needs of the home. Learn more about each by clicking here.