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LOGLUXE ARTICLE

Types of Foundations for a Prefabricated Log House

Choosing the right foundation is a crucial step in the construction process prefabricated houses, as it determines the longevity and stability of your home. There are numerous types of foundations, each with its own characteristics, advantages, and suitability for different conditions.

The main types of foundations:

1. Strip Foundation (also known as a Continuous or Plain Concrete Footing):
  • Most common type.
  • Suitable for: Lightweight to medium-weight houses made from various materials.
  • Advantages: Simple construction, affordable price, possibility of a basement.
  • Disadvantages: Might be expensive at heaving* soils and areas with high groundwater levels.

2. Pile Foundation:
  • Used on weak soils where a strip foundation is not feasible.
  • Advantages: Quick installation, not dependent on groundwater level, high load-bearing capacity, durability.
  • Disadvantages: Poor floor strapping can result in a springy floor. Necessity to insulate the floor and clad the basement.

3. Pile and Beam Foundation:
  • Versatile type of foundation suitable for various soil conditions and building types.
  • Consists of piles (screw, driven, or bored) driven deep into the load-bearing strata and beams (usually concrete) that span between the piles and support the building structure.
  • Advantages: Quick installation, suitable for weak soils and areas with high groundwater levels, high load-bearing capacity, possibility of a basement.
  • Disadvantages: Higher cost compared to a strip foundation, can be susceptible to lateral movement in some soil conditions.

4. Slab Foundation:
  • Recommended for construction on heaving soils.
  • Advantages: Even distribution of load on the soil, prevents wall deformation, possibility of a basement.
  • Disadvantages: Most expensive type of foundation, complex installation.

The choice of foundation type depends on:

  • Weight and material of the house walls.
  • Soil characteristics on the site.
  • Groundwater level.
  • Presence of a basement.
  • Construction budget.

Important! Before choosing a foundation type, it is essential to conduct geological surveys on the site and consult with experienced specialists.
Remember: The foundation is the bedrock of your home, so approach its selection and construction with great responsibility.