The foundation is the most crucial part of any building, as it supports the entire weight of the structure. When we talk about building a house, the foundation is the first step in the process. In this chapter, we will focus on the construction of baldrame beams, a type of shallow foundation common in residential homes.
What is a baldrame beam?
The baldrame beam is a reinforced concrete structure that is built along the perimeter of the house, just below ground level. Its main function is to evenly distribute the load of the house to the ground, thus avoiding the risk of collapse.
Step by step to build the baldrame beam
1. Terrain marking
The first step in building the baldrame beam is to mark the ground. This involves defining exactly where the house will be built. Marking should be done with the help of a measuring tape and wooden stakes. The stakes must be driven into the ground following the design of the floor plan of the house.
2. Excavation
After marking the land, the next step is the excavation. Digging is done along the marked lines to form a trench. The depth and width of the trench depend on the type of soil and the load that the foundation will have to withstand. Generally, the depth ranges from 50 cm to 1 m and the width from 30 cm to 50 cm.
3. Form preparation
After excavation, the trench must be prepared to receive the concrete. This is done by installing a wooden formwork along the trench walls. The form serves as a mold for the concrete, ensuring the beam has the correct shape.
4. Steel frame installation
Once the formwork is ready, the next step is to install the steel frame. The steel frame is made of steel bars that are strung together in a specific pattern. The steel frame is placed inside the wooden formwork, ensuring that there is a minimum space of 3 cm between the frame and the formwork.
5. Concreting
With the steel frame in place, the next step is concreting. Concrete is poured into the form until it is completely filled. It is important to ensure that the concrete is well compacted to prevent air bubbles from forming, which can weaken the beam.
6. Concrete curing
After concrete is poured, it needs time to cure. Curing is the process by which concrete gains strength. During curing, it's important to keep the concrete moist to prevent it from drying out too quickly, which can cause cracking.
Conclusion
The construction of the baldrame beam is a task that requires precision and attention to detail. However, with proper care, it is a task that can be successfully undertaken even by those who have no previous construction experience. Remember, the foundation is the most important part of your home, so getting it right is essential.
