Foundations
Needing Foundation Work done?
Construction foundations are critical components of any structure, as they transfer the load of the building to the ground and provide stability. The foundation must be designed to handle the weight of the structure and resist environmental forces such as wind, earthquakes, and soil movement.
A properly done foundation should outlast the life of a home. We offer quality, sturdy, and long lasting foundations that will be around for a very very long time!
Services We Offer
Shallow Foundations:
- Used when the load from the structure is relatively low or the soil near the surface has sufficient bearing capacity.
- Types include:
- Spread Footing (Isolated Footing): Distributes the load from columns or walls over a large area.
- Strip Footing: Runs along the length of a wall, distributing the weight along the entire structure.
- Raft Foundation (Mat Foundation): A large slab supporting multiple columns and walls, distributing the load over the entire area.
Deep Foundations:
- Employed when the surface soil is weak, and the load needs to be transferred to deeper, more stable layers.
- Types include:
- Pile Foundation: Long cylindrical columns driven deep into the ground to support heavy loads. Commonly used for large structures or in areas with poor soil conditions.
- Caisson Foundation: Large, watertight retaining structures sunk into the ground to a considerable depth. Often used for bridges or underwater structures.
Key Factors In Foundation Design
Soil Type:
- The properties of the soil determine the type of foundation. Geotechnical studies analyze soil bearing capacity, composition, and stability.
Load-Bearing Capacity:
- Foundations must be designed to carry the combined loads of the structure, including dead loads (permanent structures), live loads (temporary loads like furniture, people), and environmental loads (wind, seismic forces).
Environmental Conditions:
- Foundations must account for the impact of natural forces like water tables, seismic activity, and potential flooding.
Settlement:
- Settlement occurs when the foundation compresses or shifts due to soil movement. Proper design ensures that settlement is uniform to prevent structural issues.
Water Drainage and Waterproofing:
- Proper drainage prevents water from accumulating around the foundation, which could weaken the soil or cause cracks. Waterproofing helps protect against water damage.
Foundation Construction Process:
Site Investigation:
- Before construction, engineers assess the site to understand soil properties, groundwater levels, and environmental risks.
Excavation:
- The site is excavated to the depth required for the foundation, depending on the design and soil conditions.
Reinforcement:
- Steel reinforcement bars (rebars) are used to provide additional strength, especially in concrete foundations.
Formwork:
- Temporary molds are created to shape and hold the concrete in place until it hardens.
Concrete Pouring:
- Concrete is poured into the formwork, allowed to set, and then cured to achieve the desired strength.
Backfilling and Compaction:
- Once the foundation is set, the excavated areas are filled back with soil, which is compacted to avoid settlement.
Well-designed foundations ensure the long-term durability and stability of the structure.
Timeline for a New Build
The length of time required for a new build depends on the size and complexity of the project, weather conditions, and potential delays in permitting or material delivery. A typical residential new build might take 6 months to over a year, while large commercial or industrial projects may take several years.
Common Challenges in New Builds:
- Delays: Due to factors such as weather, labor shortages, or material delays.
- Budget Overruns: Unforeseen costs or design changes can push the project beyond its original budget.
- Permitting Issues: Regulatory and permitting processes can be slow and may require revisions to the plans.
- Quality Control: Ensuring the building meets design and safety standards requires careful oversight and regular inspections.
In summary, a new build construction project is a multi-phase process involving careful planning, design, and execution to deliver a functional and safe structure.
