In this article, we will discuss what is a shallow foundation along with different types of shallow foundations.

What is a Shallow Foundation?

A shallow foundation is a type of foundation that transfers building loads to the earth very near the surface, rather than to deeper soil or rock layers. Shallow foundations are typically used for small, simple structures such as houses, garages, and sheds. They are also used for some larger structures such as bridges and towers. The soil below shallow foundations is usually not excavated or reinforced in any way.

Shallow foundations are usually less expensive to construct than deep foundations because they require less excavation and less material. However, shallow foundations are not always appropriate. The soil must be able to support loads of the structure without settlement or failure. In some cases, the soil may be too weak or too compressible to support a shallow foundation, and a deep foundation may be necessary.

Different Types of Shallow Foundations

Shallow foundations are of various types depending upon their load-bearing capacity, size of the foundation, soil conditions, and construction procedure. Some of the common types of shallow foundations are as follows:

1. Individual Footing or Isolated Footing
2. Wall Footing or Strip footing or Continuous Footing
3. Combined Footing:
4. Cantilever or Strap Footing
5. Raft or Mat Foundation

Isolated Spread Footing or Individual Footing

It is the most commonly used type of foundation. An isolated footing is a type of foundation that is used to support a single column or pier. It is also known as column footing, pier footing or pedestal footing.

It is typically rectangular in shape and is placed under the base of the column or pier. The footing is usually made of concrete and is reinforced with steel rebar to provide additional strength.

Isolated footings are often used in areas where the soil is not strong enough to support the weight of the structure. They are also used when the structure is not attached to another structure, such as a building. This type of footing is typically used for small structures, such as sheds or decks.

Combined Footing

When the soil is weak and the distance between the two columns is large, then it is more economical to provide a combined footing. The combined footing is generally rectangular or trapezoidal in shape.

The combined footing is generally constructed of concrete. The concrete is poured into the forms that have been placed around the columns or walls. The forms are then removed and the footing is left to cure.

Wall Footing or Strip footing or Continuous Footing

When a row of columns or wall is to be provided, then strip footing is provided. It is also known as wall footing or trench footing. Strip footing is usually provided for the load-bearing walls.

This type of footing is typically used when the soil is not strong enough to support the weight of the structure. By spreading the load over a larger area, the strip footing or continuous footing can help to prevent the foundation from sinking into the ground.

Cantilever or Strap Footing

A strap footing is a type of combined footing that is used when the edge of the footing cannot be extended beyond the property line. The foundation under the columns is built individually and connected by a strap beam.

Raft or Mat Foundation

A mat foundation is a type of foundation that is typically used in areas where the soil is not stable enough to support a traditional foundation. A mat foundation is a thick slab of concrete that is typically reinforced with steel rebar. The mat foundation is then placed over the entire area of the building, which distributes the weight of the building evenly over the soil.

Have you wondered what is a foundation while looking at those huge buildings around you? Then you have come to the right place. Here we will describe what is a foundation along with the purposes, functions, and requirements of foundations. 

What is Foundation?

Definition: The lowest division of the building in direct contact with the soil, based on which a structure rests or stands is called the foundation. It is the basis of groundwork so the load is transferred from the constructed building to the soil.

The soil in which the foundation is to be built must have the capacity to bear the weight of the structure. So, we can say that foundation is one of the most vital components when considering to construct something at any place. A foundation bed is a ground on which it is to be built. Without the foundation bed of the building being strong or compatible with the soil, it is very likely to collapse especially during natural calamities such as an earthquake.

Purposes of Foundation

Now let’s come to the actual purposes of the foundation.

1. Providing level structure:

Foundation gives the structure the ability to stand on the ground. Without the foundation bed being strong, it is bound to fall. The stronger the foundation, the more stable the structure.

2. Distributing weight of the structure:

Foundation disseminates the weight of the construction over a huge area in such a way that there is likely any possibility of unequal settlement to not cause overload on the soil beneath. So, the load needs to be distributed in a uniform way.

3. Supporting structure against natural disasters:

The foundation is most vulnerable to damage during a natural disaster as it is the part of the building that is in contact with the ground. When the ground shakes during an earthquake, or when high winds blow during a hurricane, the foundation is needs to be able to anchor the structure during those times.

4. Preventing lateral movements:

The foundation blocks lateral movement by laying a stable base for the structure to rest on. The foundation prevents the structure from moving from side to side and also keeps it from shifting up and down.

Functions of Foundation

The major functions of the foundation are listed below based on the purposes:

1. To anchor the mass of the building.
2. To dispense load transferred and spread uniformly.
3. To lay out the lateral stability of the structure evenly.
4. To erupt movement of soil.
5. To protect from natural forces.
6. To suppress the growth of mold.
7. To provide insulation against heat and cold.
8. To resist the effects of settlement and subsidence.
9. To preserve the building from water and moisture damage.
10. To supply a sound barrier.

Requirements of Foundation

An efficient and high-functioning foundation has some fundamental requirements. Let us look at some of the basic requirements of a well-established foundation.

1. The configuration of the establishment is done in a way that the foundation can maintain its stability no matter what.
2. Location is an extreme factor when it comes to selecting the place of the foundation as the area will be influenced by the work taking place and the ground level surface will depend on the soil of that locality.
3. Based on the soil, the kind of foundation that is going to be used is decided which will be a perfect match in guarding the calculated damages to be taken place.
4. The foundation has to be durable and not subject to deterioration from water, chemicals, or other agents. It has to be waterproof.
5. Sufficient size and depth are needed for the foundation which the underlying soil will be able to carry.
6. The ability to drain water away from the structure to stop moisture damage is required for the foundation.
7. To withstand the forces of nature, the foundation is going to be made of materials that will not rot.

Steel piers and concrete piers are two piers types used as foundations. In this article, all the major differences between steel piers and concrete piers are discussed.

Steel Piers vs Concrete Piers

Steel piers vs concrete piers have several differences. Sources of the main difference between steel piers and concrete piers are definition, types of loads to carry and transmission, response to loads, confinement bars, types, importance, design criteria, etc.

In the following table, the main difference between steel piers and concrete piers are given:

When it comes to building foundations for homes, commercial buildings, and bridges, there are a few options available when it comes to the type of pier to use. Two of the most commonly used piers are concrete piers and steel piers. In this post, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of these two types of piers and provide an in-depth analysis of why concrete piers are considered to be better than steel piers. We will examine factors such as durability, strength, cost, versatility, and weather resistance to determine which type of pier is best suited for different types of structures and soil conditions. Whether you are a homeowner, contractor, or engineer, this post will provide valuable information to help you make an informed decision about which type of pier is best for your next construction project.

Concrete piers are typically considered to be better than steel piers for several reasons:

• Durability: Concrete piers are more durable than steel piers and are less likely to rust or corrode over time.
• Strength: Concrete piers have a higher compressive strength than steel piers, making them better able to support heavy loads.
• Cost: Concrete piers are generally less expensive than steel piers, especially when considering the cost of labor and materials.
• Versatility: Concrete piers can be used in a wide variety of applications, including foundations for homes, commercial buildings, and bridges, whereas steel piers are typically used for specific types of structures.
• Weather resistance: Concrete is more resistant to extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain, strong winds, and freeze-thaw cycles, than steel.

It's important to note that the specific needs of a project and the soil conditions of the area will also play a role in determining which type of pier is best suited for the job.

In conclusion, concrete piers and steel piers are both commonly used for building foundations, but they have different characteristics and benefits. Concrete piers are more durable, stronger, cost-efficient, versatile, and weather resistant than steel piers. They can be used in a wide variety of applications, making them a great option for different types of structures and soil conditions. On the other hand, steel piers are mainly used for specific types of structures and they have a higher risk of rust and corrosion over time.

It's important to note that the choice of pier will depend on the specific needs of the project and the soil conditions of the area. It's always best to consult with a professional engineer or contractor to determine the best type of pier for your project.

In this post, we've provided an in-depth analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of concrete piers and steel piers, and have determined that concrete piers are considered to be better than steel piers in most cases. We hope that this post has been informative and helpful in providing you with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision about which type of pier is best for your next construction project.

Significance of Stable And Solid Concrete Slab Foundations

For a building to be stable and durable, a solid concrete slab foundation is required. A correctly built foundation gives a structure a stable basis on which to rest distributes the building's weight uniformly, and aids in preventing settling, cracking, or other structural problems. The strength and stability of the structure may be jeopardized by foundational cracks. These cracks can enlarge over time and enable water to seep in, which can cause more damage, perhaps resulting in the growth of mildew, and compromising the structural integrity of the foundation if left unattended. 

To avoid these problems from getting worse, foundation cracks in concrete slabs must be repaired. By repairing the cracks, you may help keep the structure stable and secure, avoid water damage and insect infestations, and preserve or raise the value of your home. 

Repairs can range from easy fixes that you can do by yourself to more involved fixes needing the assistance of a professional engineer or foundation repair specialist, depending on the degree and source of the cracks.

Potential Risks that Come with Cracks in Slab Foundations

It's crucial that you handle cracks in a concrete slab foundation as soon as possible for several reasons.

Over time, these cracks can become worse and may even compromise the structural integrity of the building by causing the issue to get worse and cause more damage. It can eventually lead the building to collapse.

If a property has a cracked foundation, its value can decrease significantly, and you may be forced to visit such real estate market experts or a local cash buyer investor to sell your house.  Fixing cracks is a good way to keep a property in good condition and potentially raise its value.

When there are cracks in a foundation, it can allow moisture to seep in. This can cause various problems such as mold growth, water damage, and other related issues. Therefore, it is important to prevent moisture from entering the foundation. If you repair cracks in your foundation, it can help prevent moisture from seeping in and causing damage.

Get foundation cracks repaired immediately as it can save you money in the long run. If you postpone repairing something that needs fixing, it may lead to more severe damage, which could end up costing you more money to repair.

It's important to prioritize safety when it comes to building maintenance. A foundation that has cracks can potentially put the people inside the building at risk. It's important to quickly repair any cracks in a building's foundation to keep the people inside safe and prevent any accidents from happening.

If there are any cracks in your foundation, it could be a possible entry point for pests like termites, ants, and rodents. Therefore, it's important to prevent these cracks to keep pests away in order to avoid pest infestations and the damage they can cause.

How Cracks Develop

It is important to repair the cracks in the slab foundation but first, we need to pay attention to how the cracks develop. Concrete slab foundations can develop cracks due for various reasons. It is crucial to identify the root cause of the crack before proceeding with any repairs. Cracks in a concrete slab foundation can occur due to various reasons. Some of the common causes include: 

Settlement

Settlement is a phenomenon that happens when the soil beneath a foundation compresses or shifts, leading to the foundation sinking or settling. When a building experiences excessive pressure or stress, it can lead to the development of cracks in its foundation and other types of structural damage.

Soil Movement

Soil movement is a natural occurrence that can happen for various reasons. Some of these reasons include changes in temperature, moisture levels, or the composition of the soil. If the soil underneath a building shifts or moves, it can lead to the foundation of the building cracking or shifting as well.

Improper Curing

Improper curing happens when the concrete slab foundation is not given enough time to cure or harden properly. When concrete dries, it may shrink or crack due to this.

Overloading

When a foundation is subjected to more weight or pressure than it can handle, it is known as overloading. If this happens, it can lead to the foundation cracking or failing. 

To make sure that any repairs to a concrete slab foundation are effective in the long run, it's crucial to identify the root cause of the crack. If the root cause of the crack is not resolved, it is probable that the crack will reappear and may lead to more harm and cost. For example, if the crack is a result of settlement, it may be necessary to stabilize or reinforce the soil. If the crack in the concrete was caused by improper curing, it may be necessary to replace the concrete or ensure that it is properly cured in order to fix the issue. Sometimes, it might be essential to seek advice from a professional engineer or a foundation repair specialist to figure out the most suitable plan of action.

How to Fix the Cracks Step by Step

There are several ways to fix the cracks in the concrete slab foundations. However, here I am presenting the most effective methods to fix this issue.

Clean the crack

When repairing a crack in a concrete slab foundation, it is crucial to clean the crack thoroughly as it is a vital step in the process. Cleaning the crack before applying repair material is crucial for several reasons.

When you're trying to repair something, it's important to make sure the surface is clean. If there's dirt or dust on the surface, the repair material won't stick properly. This is because dirt and dust can get in the way and prevent a strong bond from forming. So, it's crucial to clean the surface before attempting any repairs. When you clean the crack, you get rid of any loose material, debris, or dust that might hinder the bonding process. Making sure that the repair material adheres well to the crack's surface is important to ensure a proper bond.

Cleaning the crack will help you get a clearer view of the complete damage. By using this method, you can identify the most suitable way to repair the crack and make sure that the entire crack is filled correctly.

Apply the epoxy or polyurethane crack filler

Once you have cleaned the crack, the next step in repairing cracks in a concrete slab foundation is to apply either an epoxy or polyurethane crack filler. If you have a crack in your surface, the best solution will depend on how big and serious the crack is. In general, you can choose between using an epoxy or polyurethane crack filler to fix the issue. The purpose of these materials is to deeply penetrate the crack and establish a sturdy connection. 

When selecting a material, it is important to choose the one that is most suitable for the intended use. Consider factors such as strength, durability, flexibility, and cost when making your decision. The crack filler you choose to use will vary depending on the size and location of the crack. 

When it comes to filling concrete cracks, epoxy and polyurethane are two materials that are commonly used. If you're dealing with larger cracks, epoxy is a great choice because it's a strong and durable material. In contrast to epoxy, polyurethane is more pliable and is ideal for filling smaller cracks or ones that are still in motion.

After applying epoxy or polyurethane crack fillers, it is important to let them dry completely. The drying time can vary depending on the specific product used and the conditions in which it is applied. After the filler has dried, it will become sturdy and long-lasting.

Curing

Once you have applied the crack filler to the concrete slab foundation, the next step is to let it cure. This step involves the following actions:

It's important to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. These instructions will give you specific guidance on how long you need to wait before walking on the filler or doing any other work on the foundation. To make sure that the filler sets properly and gives a long-lasting repair, it's crucial to carefully follow these instructions.

The time it takes for something to cure can be influenced by the temperature and humidity of the environment around it. If the temperature is colder or the humidity level is higher, the curing process will take longer. On the other hand, if the temperature is warmer or the humidity level is lower, the curing process will be faster. Generally, epoxy fillers take longer to cure whereas polyurethane fillers typically harden and become solid within a few hours. To ensure a lasting repair, it's crucial to let the filler cure for the recommended time. Rushing the process may compromise the quality of the repair.

Sealing the crack

Once the crack filler has fully cured, the subsequent step in repairing cracks in a concrete slab foundation involves sealing the crack. This step involves the following actions:

When it comes to sealing concrete, it's important to choose the right type of sealer for the job. There are a few different options to consider, including penetrating sealers, acrylic sealers, and epoxy sealers. 

To ensure that the sealer adheres properly, it is important to clean the surface of the foundation and remove any debris or loose material before applying it.

After applying the concrete sealer, it is important to give it enough time to dry. The amount of time it takes for the sealer to dry will depend on the specific product used and the environmental conditions. 

If you seal the crack, it will stop water from getting inside and cause more harm. It's crucial to pay extra attention to cracks that are situated in places where water can gather, like basements or garages. In addition, sealing the crack in the foundation can enhance its appearance and make it less susceptible to stains and other types of damage.

It's worth mentioning that sealing a crack may not be a permanent solution if the crack is a result of a significant structural problem, like a foundation that's shifting. If you're dealing with this kind of problem, it's recommended that you seek the advice of a professional engineer or foundation repair specialist. They can provide you with a more thorough and effective repair solution.