Damproofing and waterproofing should not be confused. Damproofing, a liquid asphalt, does not provide foundation waterproofing. Hot asphalt and rubber coating and an insulating panel will fully protect your foundation.
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Settlement cracks can occur in a concrete foundation wall or concrete slab shortly after being poured. But most concrete cracks are caused by shrinkage. Soil quality, footer design and steel reinforcements can all help prevent cracks.
If you are building a home that has brick or stone that needs the support of the foundation, a flat foundation may not be a wise choice. A ledge can be poured so your masonry sits above it to prevent water from leaking in.
Masonry walls made from stone, concrete block, brick or a combination of the materials can look fine, but wind-driven rain can really cause waterproofing problems. Massive amounts of water can enter through invisible passageways.
A patio slab that doesn't have a foundation shouldn't have a structure built on top of it. Foundations protect structures from frost heaving that could crack the slab.
If you want a truly waterproof foundation, use the right products and a good drainage system. Damp proofing products are generally asphalt or tar based compounds sprayed on the foundation. Waterproofing compounds are different from damproofing.
Concrete block was used to build thousands of basement foundation walls in Cincinnati and other parts of the nation in the 1950's building boom. Many of the builders and block layers failed to realize that block mortar typically only has 1/3 the strength in tension as concrete. Those block walls have a long horizontal crack in the bed joint about four feet from the floor. But you can build block walls that withstand the test of time.
Houses with foundations placed too close to the ground or grade level can cause drainage problems. Houses placed too high up can ruin plans for a walkout basement. Prior to building, check with your builder or architect to make sure the plans are mathematically correct.
When foundations drop, there are many reasons for the failure. Clay dirt has shrinkage and swell properties that can lead to foundation cracks. Foundations that suffer from other forms of settlement can be repaired using several methods: foundation underpinning, steel pipe piers with support brackets or helical piers.
Choosing a crawlspace over a full basement is a way to save money when building a new home. However, in the long run the usable space is a good investment.
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