Foundation Types 101

There are multiple different types of foundations, some better than others at keeping basements dry.

The most common foundation type today is poured concrete walls.  A type that is still used today, but was more common from 1940-1975 is concrete block walls.  Poured or block walls may be monolithic foundations, meaning that the floor and footing are poured in one piece.  Including the walls, it’s a two-piece foundation rather than a three-piece.

Some other foundation types include stone walls and wood walls.  Stone walls are very common in older homes, but are not used much anymore.  Wood foundation walls are made up of treated wood stud walls and plywood.  They are very rare in most areas.

The newest idea that is still fairly rare is called precast foundation walls.  These walls consist of steel-enforced concrete ribs and solid concrete.  They are considered to be a smart alternative to poured or concrete block foundation walls.

All of these foundations types have their pros and cons, but what is most important is the dirt around the foundation.  When loose soil is filled and pushed up against a new foundation, it will settle over time, especially in the first few years.  More dirt should be added in addition to what was removed so that water doesn’t flow towards the foundation.