What are foundations? A foundation is a lower portion of building structure that transfers the structures load to the ground. Foundations are generally broken into two categories: shallow foundations and deep foundations.
1. Foundation surroundings
A site survey should have been carried out, however this doesn’t tend to happen on smaller jobs. First thing to do is check for any large Trees. If you do have trees within 10meters of the proposed new foundations let your engineer know. They will likely want to know what type of tree it is and the height.
2. Check your drawings & notes
Your Architect and design engineer will add any important notes to the side of your drawings. We cant emphasise enough, if you’re across the drawings you’ll end up with a far better final product. The notes added on drawings are there for a reason and often provide important information that should be followed.
3. Pre Pour
Your foundations should ideally be poured in 1 go. If this not the case then your contractor should install a stop end and dowel bars to ensure the next pour is correctly tied to the first pour. You must consult your engineer if your builder wishes to use this method.
Pre pour checklist:
- Check theres no large debris, bricks in base of foundation.
- Check the width is correct.
- Check the sides of footing are vertical neat and tidy.
- Check they are the correct depth.
- Check for suitable cover to any reinforcement. Standard is usually 35-40mm
- Check and remove any standing water from base of the foundation
- Check for any tree roots
4. During Pour
A few weather tips, you shouldn’t pour 5c and below. Like wise if its 35c+ then you should refrain from pouring as the concrete will set to quick.
TIP! If your foundation is deep then a vibrating poker should be used to prevent honey combing within the concrete
5. After Pour
Concrete can take between 7 and 28 days to fully cure. You should refrain from placing heavy loads on the concrete from 3 to 9 days after pouring.
*Disclaimer – This post is meant as a guide only. If you have any concerns regarding your foundations you should consult your building inspector and engineer.