Foundation Systems Unit 11

Types of Foundations Pilings Continuous Grade Beam

Piling Foundation System Uses beams placed between vertical supports, called a piling, to support structural loads. ◦ When load exceeds bearing capacity of soil ◦ Used on steep hillsides ◦ Site subject to flooding

Continuous Foundation Consists of a footing and wall ◦ Most common in residential construction

Grade Beam Foundation Grade beam is placed under the soil below the stem wall and spans between stable supports ◦ Provides added support

Fireplace Footing 12” deep footing that extends 6” past the fireplace on each side.

Veneer Footings An extension of the footing to support veneer.

Foundation Wall Vertical wall that extends from the footing to the first floor

Retaining Wall Basement walls made of poured concrete or concrete blocks

Restraining Walls Used when a full height retaining wall is not needed. Used on sloped lots

Interior Supports Spot footings Piers

Pedestals A column built on top of a footing Used when upper soils are unstable

Metal Connectors Used to anchor the house to the foundation

On Grade Foundations Slab