9.10. How to Build the Foundation of a House: Masonry Walls
The foundation is the foundation of any building and is essential for the stability and safety of a home. The masonry of the walls, on the other hand, is the structure that gives shape to the house. This chapter of our e-book will guide you step by step on how to build the foundation of a house and the masonry of the walls.
Foundation Building
The construction of the foundation begins with digging the ground. The depth and width of the excavation depends on the type of foundation you plan to build and the type of soil at the site. Once the excavation is complete, the next step is to place the formwork. Formwork is a temporary mold that holds concrete in place while it dries. They can be made of wood, metal or plastic.
After placing the formwork, the next step is to install the reinforcement. Reinforcement is a network of steel bars that is placed inside the formwork to reinforce the concrete. Reinforcement is important because it helps prevent cracking and other damage to the concrete.
Once the reinforcement is in place, the concrete can be poured into the forms. Concrete should be mixed according to the manufacturer's recommendations and poured evenly to prevent air bubbles from forming. After the concrete is poured, it needs to be leveled and smoothed. This can be done using a concrete ruler and trowel.
Once the concrete is dry, the forms can be removed. The foundation now needs to be waterproofed to protect it from water. This can be done by applying a waterproofing coating to the surface of the foundation.
Masonry of the Walls
The masonry of the walls begins with laying the first row of blocks or bricks. This first row is called the foundation of the wall and is crucial to the stability of the wall. Blocks or bricks must be placed evenly and levelly. Mortar should be applied between each block or brick to hold them together.
After placing the first row, subsequent rows of blocks or bricks can be added. Each row should be offset relative to the row below it to increase wall stability. Mortar should be applied between each block or brick and also on the ends of the blocks or bricks to create a strong bond.
Openings for doors and windows should be planned in advance and left free of blocks or bricks. These openings can be reinforced with concrete or steel lintels.
Once all the walls are complete, they should be left to dry completely before proceeding with the next step of construction. Wall masonry is a crucial part of home construction and requires precision and attention to detail.
In summary, the foundation and masonry of the walls are two of the most important parts of building a home. They provide the foundation and structure for the home and must be constructed with care and precision to ensure the safety and durability of the home.
