Concrete Foundation Information
The foundation of any building is critically important because it supports the
entire structure. Because the foundation serves as the base, the quality of the
material and workmanship used must be of superior quality. It does not matter if
the foundation is for a road, a single-family home or a high-rise building.
Laying out the foundation is a job for professional contractors and/or
engineers.
Foundation Types
Basically, there are two major types of concrete foundations: concrete block and
poured concrete. Block foundations are concrete blocks stacked and filled with
cement. Poured foundation, on the other hand, involve the setting up of concrete
forms and filling them up with concrete. Usually, both types of foundations are
reinforced with steel or other metals to improve the overall strength.
Potential Problems
Cracks are the enemy of concrete and it is always important to watch for the
first sign of problems. Usually, if there is structural concern, concrete
foundations will begin to crack within the first year of installation. Shrinkage
or settling may be the culprit. Water damage can also be a big problem. Concrete
foundations must be properly drained and waterproofed with sealers that provide
protection from moisture and sagging. Once the structure is built, it is
difficult to do major work on the foundation.
Curing the Concrete
A concrete foundation requires at least seven days to cure, but it may take as
much as sixty days or more for it to reach full strength. Curing time is
affected by the amount of moisture present in the foundation as well as general
humidity. The dryer the area around the concrete, the better. Waterproof as much
as possible. Obviously, do not pour concrete in the rain or if anticipating wet
conditions.
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