A concrete foundation is the structural base of a house or building. They are typically made with concrete forms for concrete blocks and filled with concrete from a concrete pump truck. The most common types of foundations are: 

 

The 3 Most Common Types of Foundations

1. Basement Foundations:

A basement foundation creates a full-height space below the main floor. The basement area provides extra extra square footage to your home and can be used for living space, storage, and even rental suites.

• A basement foundation is typically 8 to 10 feet deep. This allows for more square footage in your home on a smaller piece of land. 
• Homes with a finished basement or a rental suite downstairs usually have a higher resale value.  

Where are Basement Foundations most common?

• In Canada: Basement foundations are most popular in B.C. and Ontario. Canadian building codes usually include basement foundations as standard.
• In the U.S.A.: Basement foundations are most popular in the Northern U.S. typically the Midwest and Northeast

2. Crawl Space Foundations: 

A crawl space foundation elevates the house above the ground using short concrete or block walls creating a small space between the ground below first floor.

• A crawl space is typically 1 to 3 high and prevents water damage
• The crawl space is accessible and could be used for limited storage. 
• The first floor is usually built on wood joists.
• It provides some protection from wet ground and helps prevent water damage. 

Where are crawl spaces most common?

A crawl space is commonly used in wet climates but to require sealing and ventilation. 

• In Canada: Crawl spaces in Canada are very rare.
• In the U.S.A.: A crawl space is most common in the Pacific Northwest and Southeast states. 

3. Slab On Grade Foundations: 

A slab-on-grade foundation is a thick concrete slab poured directly on the ground. This is the base of the foundation and the floor of a building. It's called “on grade” because its at ground level (On Grade) and does not have a basement or crawl space.

• The are typically used in areas with a high water table.
• They are usually cheaper and faster to build.
• Preferred for fat or warm climates. 
• The concrete slab is reinforced with rebar or mesh to prevent cracking of the slab. 
• It's usually poured over gravel and a vapor barrier for drainage and moisture control. 

Where are Slab On Grade Foundations most Common?

Slab on grade foundations are commonly used for garages, warehouses, commercial buildings, and rancher style homes. 

• In Canada: Slab On Grade foundations are common to northern areas where excavations may be too costly or just impractical to dig a basement or crawl space. They are also common of Vancouver Island and the lower mainland of B.C. where there are high water tables. 
• In the U.S.A.: Slab on grade foundations are most popular in the Southern states like California, Texas, and Florida. 

 

Include - links to

ICF, (New Group)

Pouring Concrete,

Foundation Waterproofing (New Group)