- Written By: Lori Kilchermann
- Edited By: Jenn Walker
- Last Modified Date: 14 March 2012
-
Copyright Protected:
2003-2012 Conjecture Corporation
A floating foundation is a foundation that does not use footings. The floating foundation is a poured cement slab that has two deep edges going just below the frost line in northern climates. The floating foundation actually does float on the earth and moves as temperatures compact and expand the soil. The floating foundation is very common in garage floors and mobile home slabs. In many parts of the world, the floating foundation is simply referred to as a slab foundation.
In a typical floating foundation, the plumbing and electrical lines are fastened to the slab by simply running them through the floor as it is poured. This means that the plumbing, drainage and electrical lines must all be completed prior to pouring the slab or foundation. This type of design can lead to very expensive repair bills if the plumbing requires work in the future. In many cases, it is a much more affordable method of building than using a footing equipped foundation. In warmer climates, the floating slab is much more friendly to homeowners as it does not flex as much without the extreme changes in temperature. The floating foundation also aids in cooling the structure, as the foundation's contact with the ground draws cool temperatures through the concrete and disperses them throughout the building.
When constructing out-buildings such as sheds, the floating foundation can take on another meaning. Some flooring systems for outside sheds are known as floating foundation floors and do not require any concrete to be poured. In these applications, the foundation is merely lumber framing placed upon blocks. This allows the floor of the shed to sit elevated off of the ground. This design prevents harmful water from seeping into the shed and protects the shed's contents from becoming damaged by water or moisture.
When pouring a floating slab foundation, it is imperative to install reinforced steel rods or heavy wire mesh in the floor prior to pouring the concrete. The wire and steel prevent the floor from cracking and breaking as the slab flexes with the earth. Without this reinforcement, the slab will likely crack and possibly cause damage to the walls and ceiling, as the floor will be allowed to flex unevenly. Often the flexing of an un-reinforced slab can cause doors to improperly close and open and windows to stick or even crack. Walls are also subject to cracking, and drywall is prone to break at the seams.
Related Videos
Discuss this Article
|
miriam98
Post 4 |
I built a deck in my backyard recently with a floating foundation deck system. This kind doesn’t require concrete or digging holes. It’s pretty much a do-it-yourself system.
All I had to do was put deck block piers on top of the soil, put support boards and then attach the final deck boards. It truly “floats” on top of the soil, no need to attach it to the house.
I built the whole thing in a weekend. I realize this is not a floating foundation for a house, but I just thought I’d share-and recommend it to anyone wanting to build a deck. |
|
SkyWhisperer
Post 3 |
@nony - Repairing a house foundation is an expensive proposition. Right now in our area we keep hearing this company on the radio advertise a cable system of repairing the foundation, using concrete pilings and steel. It’s supposed to be the best way to secure a foundation.
I don’t think it will be cheap, however, and in your case, if your house is built on a slope, you have a potential problem that goes deeper than the foundation.
I’d say you should go ahead and at least get a free estimate, but given your situation you should probably just live with it. As long as you see nothing major-like cracks in the exterior brick work of the house-then you should be ok. |
|
nony
Post 2 |
@allenJo - If your inspector said it was nothing to worry about I wouldn’t pay much attention to it. You may want to keep an eye on it now and then but it shouldn’t be a problem. The greater concern would be foundation cracks in the house itself. That happens to be my problem.
Our house is built on a slope and we have a large greenbelt in the backyard. We have some shifting in the foundation. Our inspector informed us about it but said there was no reason for concern. I too have my doubts.
We also noticed that some of the doors don’t fit properly as a result. I suppose it comes with the territory given our location. At some point in the future I may have another inspector look at it again. The last thing I want to deal with, however, is foundation repair. I can’t afford that right now.
|
|
allenJo
Post 1 |
I assume I have a floating concrete foundation in my garage-we do use the term slab foundation here. I had the house inspected before buying it and the inspector noted a slight hairline crack in the foundation in the garage, but he said it was nothing to worry about.
He said there was some settling of the house. I don’t know if this means that the slab was not reinforced with steel prior to the cement being poured or what. Should I be concerned? |
