A building is only as solid as its foundation, and excavating and contracting professionals use a variety of foundation styles to overcome engineering challenges. The best foundation-building technique for a particular project depends on several factors, from the quality of the soil to the size of the building. Below are explanations of some of the most common types of foundations.

3 Types of Building Foundations & Their Applications

1. Individual Footings

In warm areas where the soil isn’t subject to regular freezing, individual footing foundations are common. This technique is frequently used when the weight of the building is supported by columns and features a square pad of concrete underneath the soil. In softer soil, the foundations might be buried deeper and feature a stepped design, which transfers the load to the surrounding earth.

2. Strip Footings

Strip footings are often used in home construction, especially for houses featuring old-fashioned masonry walls designed to carry the weight of the structure. To build a strip footing, excavating contractors typically dig a trench and pour a long, continuous concrete footing. In older buildings, the underground structure might also be made of brick or rough stone.

3. Raft Foundations

These structures, also known as mat foundations, are relied upon in cold areas or in buildings that incorporate a basement into the design. In raft foundations, the entire floor of the basement acts as the foundation, distributing the weight across a wider surface area. Raft foundations are also used when the soil is particularly weak, or the supporting columns are placed so closely that concrete footings would run together.

With over 25 years of experience in a wide range of jobs, Brown Concrete & Backhoe provides expert excavating services to contractors and homeowners throughout Iowa City. Whatever project you’re involved in, they guarantee superior service you can rely on at some of the best rates in the industry. Visit their website for more on their excavating services, or call (319) 848-4222 to discuss your project and request a quote.