The most common types of basement construction are:
- Poured concrete
- Cinder blocks
- Precast panels
Poured Concrete
Poured concrete basements are the most common type of basement construction. This type of basement construction starts by pouring a footing for the basement foundation. After these are set, forms are used to hold the poured concrete walls in place as they dry. Poured concrete walls tend to be stronger than other types of basement walls.
Something to consider before choosing a poured concrete foundation…
High hydrostatic pressure outside a poured concrete basement can cause water to seep through due to the pressure, creating floor and wall cracks.
Cinder Blocks
Block or masonry walls are the least expensive type of basement construction. This type of basement wall construction is made from cinder blocks. Steel rebar is sometimes used to reinforce the masonry wall. This method requires less time than other methods of basement construction.
Something to consider before choosing a brick or masonry foundation…
A block concrete basement wall will bow easier than other types due to the pressure against the walls that weakens the mortar joints.
Precast Panels
Precast panel basement wall construction is the method where the walls are molded at another location. Then the walls are transported to the building and placed on footers. This type of basement construction is quite strong but not as common as poured or block basements.
Something to consider before choosing precast panels…
Precast panel basement construction can have moisture problems if the joints are not properly sealed, causing moisture vapor to get trapped in the panels. These panels can also attract insects unless they have been treated with boric acid.
Whatever type of basement foundation you have, Epp Foundation Repair can help. We fix basements!
