If you want a truly waterproof foundation, use the right products and a good drainage system. Damp proofing products are generally asphalt or tar based compounds sprayed on the foundation. Waterproofing compounds are different from damproofing.
Q&A /
Concrete block was used to build thousands of basement foundation walls in Cincinnati and other parts of the nation in the 1950's building boom. Many of the builders and block layers failed to realize that block mortar typically only has 1/3 the strength in tension as concrete. Those block walls have a long horizontal crack in the bed joint about four feet from the floor. But you can build block walls that withstand the test of time.
Houses with foundations placed too close to the ground or grade level can cause drainage problems. Houses placed too high up can ruin plans for a walkout basement. Prior to building, check with your builder or architect to make sure the plans are mathematically correct.
When foundations drop, there are many reasons for the failure. Clay dirt has shrinkage and swell properties that can lead to foundation cracks. Foundations that suffer from other forms of settlement can be repaired using several methods: foundation underpinning, steel pipe piers with support brackets or helical piers.
Choosing a crawlspace over a full basement is a way to save money when building a new home. However, in the long run the usable space is a good investment.
Too many basement foundation walls are built with a minimum amount of structural steel. The exterior walls are rarely waterproofed. When concrete cracks, leaks start to happen. You can patch the basement leaks and cracks from the inside, but it is not easy.
Precast concrete foundations have many advantages. They don't need footers poured and cured in a controlled factory. They can be installed in less than a day and are bolted together and then waterproofed.
Houses develop cracks after they are built. Settlement can happen, but the cracks you see are often caused by something else. Structural cracking can be minimized by taking precautions.
The foundation of your home is important. An extra 20 inches of concrete will give you full-height eight foot finished ceilings in your basement. You could also get a slab on grade or crawl space basement. Discovery the different building foundation types in this column.
A large foundation crack is a serious matter. Professional engineers who understand foundations need to be brought in. Once the foundation has stopped its differential movement, then the foundation repair can begin.
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