Beginning to build a home requires careful planning, and one of the first steps is building the foundation. The foundation is the base upon which the home will be built and is crucial to the stability and longevity of the structure. This chapter of our e-book will guide you step by step on how to build the foundation of a house, starting with studying the soil.
Soil Study
Soil study is the first step towards building a safe and durable foundation. The soil must be able to support the weight of the house and withstand external pressures such as climate change and seismic movements. To determine the bearing capacity of the soil, it is necessary to carry out a soil test. This test will assess soil composition, presence of groundwater, soil compaction and other factors that can affect foundation stability.
There are different types of soil, each with its own characteristics and bearing capacities. For example, clayey soil is less stable and can expand or contract with changes in moisture, whereas sandy soil is more stable and has a good bearing capacity. Studying the soil will help you choose the type of foundation best suited to your soil type.
Choosing the Type of Foundation
After carrying out the soil study, the next step is to choose the type of foundation. There are several types of foundations, each suitable for different soil types and building conditions. The most common foundations are slab foundations, pillar foundations and foundation foundations.
The slab foundation is a single slab of concrete that is poured directly onto the ground. This is a good choice for stable soils and areas with a high groundwater level. Pillar foundations are concrete pillars that are driven into the ground to support the structure of the house. This type of foundation is suitable for less stable soils or for houses built on slopes. Foundation foundations are concrete walls that are built below ground level to support the home. This type of foundation is suitable for soils with a good bearing capacity.
Foundation Building
Once you have chosen the type of foundation, the next step is building the foundation. The first step is digging the soil. The depth of the excavation will depend on the type of foundation you have chosen. For example, for a slab foundation, you will need to dig just enough to level the ground, while for a bedrock foundation, you will need to dig below ground level.
After digging the soil, the next step is the preparation of the base. This involves compacting the soil and adding a layer of gravel to improve drainage. Next you will need to build wooden forms to shape the concrete. Forms must be strong enough to support the weight of the concrete without deforming.
The next step is to place the concrete. Concrete should be mixed according to the manufacturer's specifications and poured into the forms. After pouring the concrete, it must be smoothed and leveled. Finally, the concrete should be allowed to cure for at least a week before removing the forms.
Building the foundation of a house is a complex process that requires knowledge, skill and careful planning. However, with proper soil study and choosing the right foundation type, you can build a foundation that will support your home for years to come.
