A raised slab foundation combines a foundation slab and a raised foundation. In simple terms, it is an elevated structural base upon which a house is typically built and prevents the house from rainfall infiltration.
How is a raised slab foundation built?
To build a foundation from raised slabs requires that you construct a foundation wall of concrete blocks and footings are dug, crushed stones are then placed in the wall and leveled with moisture barriers installed at the top of the crushed stones. And you also raise the support for the outer edges with concrete and other solid materials.
Plumbing and water lines and wire mesh are also placed on top of the crushed stones, and a concrete slab will be poured on the wire mesh for it to have strength and stability.
Raised slab foundations are moisture-resistant and can withstand unfavorable and extreme weather conditions also and as such, they are considered to be good for coastal areas.
A typical slab foundation has a full fundamental structure with a perimeter wall built on the foundation, the interior is filled with stones and the structure is covered with concrete.
Constructing a home on a raised slab foundation is best when you have no plans for a remodeling of the home in the future and you prefer having the moisture and allergen issues that commonly occur settled. Also, when you want to minimize the construction cost, then you can consider having a raised slab foundation.
A raised foundation can fit in most projects. For instance, on a building site with soil issues like expansive clay, a raised foundation house would be a better option than any other foundation as those may crack and lead to building collapse from the foundation on such soils.
The different kind of foundations that a house can be built all have their benefits and limitations. So, in deciding which foundation to choose for a house, you must put certain factors in place for your consideration. Things as the kind of structure you want to build on, the area of the building site, and the type of soil there. You might also want to consider the cost implications and the like.
Advantages of Raised slab foundations
- It has a lower cost of maintenance
- It can contain radiant floor heating for warmth and doesn’t harbor allergens.
- Raised slab foundations reduce the risk of your home being flooded. (in some areas that are very prone to flood, they provide your house with an extra layer that protects it from the flood).
- When constructed properly, it provides resistance against moisture issues
Disadvantages of a raised slab foundation.
- It is prone to cold
- It attracts snakes and other insects.
- Renovating a raised slab foundation is expensive because it requires that the slab is removed.
Why Implement Raised Slab Foundations?
Raised slab foundation means raised houses which bring about many advantages. If you want to build on slopy land, raised foundations are your best bet because the supports do not have to be of equal length, making it easy to build there. And you can build without carrying out much property leveling.
And if the area is prone to flooding, it is best to have this extra layer to elevate your home off the ground and the flood water level. And in times of severe flooding, the water might not reach your doors’ bottom depending on how raised the foundation is. It also keeps the pest away alongside, because the house is off the ground where most pests dwell.
More so, if you need to do any work under the house in coming times, the raised foundation makes it easier. And for repairs and moving services, the foundation allows more flexibility, and it will make the solution more accessible and less costly.
Finally, with raised foundations, you will not have to walk on cold floors, unlike houses without raised slab foundations. This is because water is not transferred from the ground level to the living quarters. So, the house feels warmer and more intimate.
Conclusion
Before you research the option of replacement and repair of a raised slab foundation, it is paramount that you understand what it entails.
They are the best for coastal properties because of their resilience in harsh and unfavorable weather conditions and they also keep moisture problems outside air.