Basic Requirements Of Building A Foundation System
A foundation is a structure that anchors the structure under which it is built and helps transfer load from the walls to the ground. There are many types of foundations that are common among foundation contractors in NYC. They are generally categorized as either shallow or deep and the design of the elements of the foundation is largely dependent on the geological characteristics of the site.
The New York City Administrative Code governs the permit approval process, hence construction documents are needed to be submitted for working on foundations. The NYC Building Code gives out the design requirements of foundation work including excavation and shoring.
All foundations are more or less the combination of the following individual components:
- A Continuous Concrete Footing
- A Foundation Wall
- A Concrete Slab Floor
All types of foundations employ the above mentioned components as they form an integral part of the foundation system. These transfer the weight of the house down to the ground and keep the structure stable and firm.
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Although concrete is an extremely hard material by itself, it tends to crack under pressure if they are not properly strengthened due to their brittle nature. Reinforced steel bars are hence installed in concrete to resist any breakage or twisting caused by vibrations such as earthquakes.
One important thing to consider is placing the bottom of the footing below the frost line so as to prevent frost damage to the foundation. The frost line exists at some distance below the surface level where the chances of ground freezing are very high. Placing the foundation footing below the frost line also prevents any movement of the slab caused by the freeze-thaw cycle. The depth of frost line is closer to the ground surface in warmer regions and deep in the ground in colder areas.
Another important aspect of foundation construction is keeping it waterproof. Water accumulation can be a danger for foundation and the steel bars embedded in them. The exterior side of the foundation walls should have a solid waterproofing material installed on it. The moisture barrier should be sufficient to form a skin over both the walls and the footings.
The internal drainage of the foundation should be sloped such that the water drains away from the house instead of moving towards it. A difference of about 6 inches between the ground level and the top of the foundation wall also helps keep away most seepage from the soil.
