Block or concrete foundations are the most crucial part of the construction. It highly impacts other decisions and could lead to the failure or success of a project. It is therefore advisable to seek the services of an experienced masonry company in Glen Burnie. Before we dive into the debate of which material is best for foundations, let us start with the basics.
What is a foundation?
The foundation is the structural system that supports or provides anchorage from the ground. This stability is necessary for sufficient distribution of the weight of the rest of the structure to avoid unequal settlement usually caused by overloading the underlying soil. Construction on an unstable foundation can be severely consequential and lead to problems such as cracks in the drywall and water intrusion-which causes wood rot and mold, poorly operating doors, and so on.
Block Foundations
Otherwise referred to as reinforced block and concrete walls, block foundations are cinder blocks stacked together and cemented with mortar. The clocks may vary in size depending on the overall weight load of the building. Here are the pros and cons of block foundations.
Pros
- They can take a huge amount of weight- the cinder blocks can withstand high compression strength.
- They do not require wooden forms.
- The blocks are ready-made and readily available, making them easy to store and transport and relatively less labor-intensive.
- They are versatile and thus well suited for seismic areas
- Reinforced block foundations offer sturdiness and better insulation
Cons
- Poor construction of a cinder block foundation can lead to buckling and bowing. This may also be caused by underground lateral water pressure.
- They are prone to water leaks due to the number of joints between individual blocks.
- The mortar may disintegrate over time, thus compromising the foundation’s strength.
- They are relatively expensive to maintain since they require constant monitoring and sealing.
Concrete Foundations
Poured concrete foundations are hard, uniform, and made from concrete mixes (cement, sand, and gravel). It requires large wooden forms to handle the amount of pressure from the structure’s weight. Constructing concrete foundations should be done professionally.
Pros
- Takes less time to lay since pouring the concrete is quick, and the slab dries almost instantly.
- Concrete Foundations do not have weak points and thus are less likely to allow water and gas leakages.
- They are more cost-efficient compared to block foundations
- Requires little maintenance as concrete resists fire, insects, and molds.
- Offers more design flexibility due to its strength.
Cons
- It can cause expensive damage If the concrete mix is not prepared properly.
- Some of the materials are extremely heavy and dangerous to the environment.
- Requires heavy and special equipment, which adds to the construction cost.
Best Masonry Company in Glen Burnie
If you are stuck on which type of foundation is best for your next project, you need to seek professional support. An excellent masonry contractor takes you through all your options and recommends the best for you. Looking for a masonry company in Glen Burnie? Feel free to contact J&A Services to get a free estimate.