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Re: Installing a foundation under an existing houseFrom: info@builderswebsource.com
Category: Foundations and Basements
Remote Name: 63.198.181.43
Date: 31 Aug 2002
Time: 02:54 PM
CommentsInstalling a new foundation under an existing home requires that you support the structure during demolition and removal of the foundation. Lifting the house gives better access and is sometimes done when a larger crawlspace is desired. However, lifting the house is not always required. Jacks, sometimes in conjunction with steel or wood supports, are placed under the existing structure to transfer the load while the new foundation is being installed. If you're going to the expense of installing a new foundation, we urge you to understand the soil conditions in your area. You may need to install a more substantial foundation to mitigate future settling. Furthermore, anytime you disturb the existing load-bearing soil, such as by demolition and removal of an existing foundation, you must recompact the disturbed soil to reduce the chance of additional settling. As to the cost, this varies from region to region. In California, for example, seismic retrofitting would be required. In cold climates, the foundation must go below the frost line, which implies a deeper footing. A deeper footing means more excavation, more rebar and more concrete. We suggest you solicit bids from multiple contractors once you have a firm set of plans. Consulting with a local, licensed structural engineer is probably worth the investment, just to make sure your foundation is properly design to factor in drainage and soil conditions in your area. And, so long as you're at it, installing a perimeter drainage system is a good idea. A civil engineer can draw up simple plans for you. Builders Websource
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