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The Pros and Cons of Most Common Home Foundations

The foundation you’re going to install in your home will still depend on your preference and budget. The foundation is basically the portion of your house that carries the load of the structure that’s going to be built upon it. No matter what kind of foundation you’re going to install, it should keep out the groundwater from penetrating, support the weight of the structure and act as a barrier to soil vapor and water.  

Home Foundations

Almost all foundations available in the market can do those jobs, but they have difference in pros and cons. While you decide the type of foundation that’s perfect for your house, you should consider a lot of things. This is the most challenging part, that’s why contractors of foundation repair in Mcallen TX are there to help you out. As a starter, the following are the basic things you should know about the types of foundation.  

Slab Foundation  

The most common type of foundation is the slab which requires a lot of manual labor to prepare before you build the foundation. But when compared to other types of foundation, the installation of slab foundation is simpler compare to the others. This is also popular to homeowners because it’s not that too costly.  

Like all the types of foundations, installing the slab starts with pouring the concrete footers 24 inches below the projected grade. After everything is poured, two layers of concrete block are put on the footer’s top. After the laying, the internal piping is installed. After that, the concrete will add some rock filler followed by concrete (4 inches) poured in its top.  

Pros:  

If you’re on a budget, the slab foundation will really save you. This is by far the cheapest option out there. It also requires a low maintenance, so if you’re tight on budget you can install this.  

Cons: 

Even though it requires little maintenance, slab foundation is going to cost you a lot for repairs. It also doesn’t offer maximum protection from harsh weathers.  

Crawlspace Foundations 

This type of foundation is elevated from the ground. The installation is similar to the slab foundation. The contractors will pour the footing, lay the blocks and build the foundation. It takes time to build this type of foundation.  

Pros:  

Because of the crawl space available, you will have easy access to the utilities. You can install the ductwork, piping and wiring so you can have easy access on them once repairs and maintenance are made. It also has warmer floors compare to the slab foundation.  

Cons:  

One of the biggest drawbacks of crawl space foundation is that it is prone to moisture, that’s why you have to install a high-end vapor/moisture barrier.   

Basement Foundations 

Basement foundations are now built with poured concrete walls which prevent moisture permeation and structural integrity problems.  

Pros:  

When it comes to repair, it’s easy to do standing up because the basement is accessible. The basement can also be a seasonal living space for you family. It can also protect you from storms.  

Cons:  

Basement foundation is the most expensive type of foundation. It lacks natural lights, and also prone to flooding.