8 Types of Basement Foundations in Construction

While we know how vital a sturdy foundation is for a building's strength, it might be surprising to learn about the different basement foundation types available. Thus, by exploring these options, builders and homeowners can select the most suitable foundation type to ensure their structures' long-term stability and resilience.

(Photo : Pexels/Huu Loi Nguyen)

1. Mat (Raft) Foundation

Mat foundations, also known as raft foundations, are a single huge continuous rectangular or circular slab placed beneath a building. This foundation is responsible for carrying and distributing the full load of the structure. Under the full footprint of the building, raft foundations can sustain a number of columns and walls at the same time, thereby spreading the load out.

2. Pile Foundation

Pile foundations consist of long, narrow cylinders made of sturdy material. Accordingly, the load is transferred to the necessary depth, and the structure above is supported by pile foundations pushed into the stable earth far below the surface.

3. Walkout Basement

If the house sits on a hill, some of the foundation walls can be seen from the outside, which is called a walkout or daylight basement. In contrast to complete basements, walkout basements generally have wide windows comparable to those found throughout the rest of the house. These windows allow sunshine to fill the space.

4. Full Basement Foundations

An approximate proportion of the home's footprint defines a complete basement. Approximately one or two feet of the construction is visible above ground level, with most of the structure buried beneath. In most cases, the only means to access the entire basement is through an inside staircase located on the house's first floor. Windows in a complete basement are usually of a tiny size, located high on the basement wall, and do not let in a significant amount of natural light.

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5. Crawl Space Foundations

Crawl spaces are an essential component to consider when selecting a foundation, even though they are not officially classified as basements. It is common practice to leave a little protected gap, often three or four feet, between the ground and the base of the building when crawl space foundations are elevated several feet off footings. Crawl spaces combine the advantages of standard foundations and basement foundations since the base walls are constructed partially subterranean and are shorter in height than basement foundation walls. In comparison to ordinary foundations, they are deeper, while basements are shallower than they are.

6. Pier and Beam Foundation

Pier and beam foundations for basements are constructed by assigning weight support for a house via timber or concrete piers. Many people choose this form of foundation because it offers superior ventilation compared to other types of foundations. Constructing this foundation is also less expensive than building a full basement foundation. On the other hand, it might not be appropriate for regions that have highly elevated water tables.

7. Slab-on-Grade Foundation

A slab-on-grade foundation involves pouring concrete directly onto the ground, making it a commonly used basement foundation. This particular type of foundation is also less expensive and can be built more quickly than other forms. However, it does not offer any area for living or storing things.

8. T-Shaped Foundation

The construction of a T-shaped foundation is a type of basement foundation that entails the pouring of a footing and foundation wall in stages that are carried out independently. Because it offers superior solidity in comparison to other types of foundation, this particular type of foundation is exceptionally popular. It is also appropriate for regions with high water tables. Nevertheless, T-shaped foundation construction requires more time and resources than alternative foundation varieties.

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