Before building a house, a homeowner must consider the material he’s going to use for the foundation. You see, the foundation will make your house sturdy for many years, so it’s important that the material you’re going to use for its construction is also sturdy and durable. Even you’re not going to help in the labor of the construction, you have a big say on what to use. The two primary types you should take note are the slab-on-grade structure and pier-and-beam structure.
In this article, we will discuss the difference between the two structures and their advantages and disadvantages. If you want to know more click on the link provided, Georgetown foundation repair.
- The Pier-and-Beam Foundation
Not all homeowners understand how this type of foundation works. This foundation doesn’t sit on the ground; it’s elevated with a crawl space under which is measured 18” high. The space is the place for the electrical units, plumbing units and other utilities. The floors are supported by the floor joists. The material that supports the house’s exterior is the concrete beams.
Its Advantages
You can get a lot of benefits from this material, which are the following:
- Accessibility-If you’re going to encounter plumbing and electrical problems in the future, the repair technician can easily access the utility lines because they can be found on the crawl space. If there are also foundation issues, it can be corrected easily.
- Comfortable Floors-With this type of structure, you’re going to experience comfort while walking on the floors. If you suffer from back pain or arthritis, you will benefit from this.
- Less Repair Cost-This type of foundation has less cost on repairs.
- Less Risk of Damage-This structure is prone to fewer risks to damage because of ground shifting. Repairs are also cheaper than the slab foundation.
Disadvantages
With this structure however, there are few disadvantages. Mold and mildew can easily penetrate in because of the space under. If there’s too much rain under the structure, this will lead to problems. During winter, the floor is cold too.
- Slab-on-Grade Foundation
The following are its advantages:
- Not Elevated-This foundation structure is not elevated like the first type. It has a single concrete later with several inches of thickness and lies on the crushed gravel.
- No Pest-Since it’s not elevated, there’s no space for the critters and pests to go, so you will be safe from them.
- Better for Handicaps-If you have a family member who is a handicap, this foundation structure will suit them because it only has two steps when you enter the house.
- Not Prone to Rotting-This type of foundation is not prone to rot that is mainly caused by leaking toilets, tubs or showers.
Disadvantages
The biggest disadvantage you’re going to experience from this foundation structure is that it cannot adapt to seasonal movements. Repairs are also costly. Also, when the pipes burst underneath it, you will spend a lot of money for the repair. So, choose wisely.
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