Which foundation type should your new home plan have? Every great floor plan begins with a firm foundation, so build yours on the best option for your conditions! It’s important to choose the right foundation type for your home – get a little guidance here, and we know you’ll make the right choice! Let’s dive deep and learn more about each type of foundation.
Slab – The Most Popular Foundation Type
About half of all new homes built in the U.S. are built on a slab foundations. Because a slab is by far the most cost-effective choice, customers flock to this budget-friendly option. It’s quick and easy, as far as foundations go – a slab can often be poured directly on the ground or on a bed of gravel. Your builder may need to do just a bit of excavating beforehand to create a usable surface.
A slab foundation is a great option for warm and dry climates where frost depth won’t be an issue. They also work perfectly for areas where water tables keep basem*nts from being feasible. However, a slab likely won’t be an option if you’re building on a sloped lot (a crawlspace or basem*nt may be your best bet here, depending on your conditions).
Crawlspace – The Best of Both Worlds
A crawlspace combines aspects of both basem*nt and slab foundations. A crawlspace’s fairly inexpensive design assists those who hope to remain conscious of budget. Meanwhile, the 2-3 feet of space (or more) it provides below the home will give its owner much-needed access to mechanical and plumbing fixtures. This will help save time and money on repairs for years to come!
A crawlspace is also a wonderful option for customers building on a sloped lot. Footings are used to create a level base to build your home on. Crawlspaces are also chosen in most flood zone areas, because the space between the ground and first floor acts as a barrier that protects from flooding.
Basem*nt – Additional Square Footage
Basem*nt foundations are the most expensive to build, but come with incredible benefits! You create an abundance of additional square footage when you choose to build with this foundation type – not to mention access to utilities becomes a non-issue! Build a gaming area, family room, or guest space. The only limit is your imagination!
Those building in colder climates often choose to build with basem*nt foundations. This is the case because of frost levels. Footings for a home must be dug and poured below the local frost level, so it makes the choice to go a bit further and do a full basem*nt much easier.
Before you go, let’s take a quick look at the different types of basem*nts.
In-Ground Basem*nt:
An in-ground basem*nt is either completely or mostly underground. The only access to an in-ground basem*nt is through the main level of a home. Some start at ground level, while others start just above to allow space for small windows for light. Customers typically choose an in-ground basem*nt when building on a level lot, as excavation costs for a walkout basem*nt can be costly.
Daylight or Walkout Basem*nt:
A daylight or walkout basem*nt offers one or more full-sized windows on its exterior walls. The term walkout basem*nt is often used when there is also a door leading outside. Our customers often prefer a daylight or walkout basem*nt, because it lacks the “basem*nt feel” they aren’t fans of. This is thanks to the natural light its windows and doors provide. This is a great choice when building on a sloped lot!
Check out our home plans with basem*nts, or for more basem*nt info, check out our blog – Benefits of a Daylight Basem*nt!
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Christine Cooney
Editor at The House Designers
Christine has over a decade of experience as a house plan and floor plan expert. Outside of providing her expertise to customers to help them find and build their dream homes, her passion and knowledge of the home building industry allows Christine to guide families and builders through all of the important steps from finding plans to building custom homes that meet the expectations of today’s new home owner. Christine’s years of knowledge of the diverse trends and needs of the modern homeowner has made her into an authoritative and trusted voice in the online house plan community.
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Christine Cooney
Christine has over a decade of experience as a house plan and floor plan expert. Outside of providing her expertise to customers to help them find and build their dream homes, her passion and knowledge of the home building industry allows Christine to guide families and builders through all of the important steps from finding plans to building custom homes that meet the expectations of today’s new home owner. Christine’s years of knowledge of the diverse trends and needs of the modern homeowner has made her into an authoritative and trusted voice in the online house plan community.
Given the content of the article and its detailed insights into different types of home foundations, let's delve into the foundational knowledge of each type, ensuring accuracy and depth:
Slab Foundation
Definition and Description:
A slab foundation, often referred to as a "slab on grade," involves pouring a single, thick layer of concrete directly onto the ground. It lacks any crawl space or basem*nt and rests directly on the soil.
Pros:
- Cost-Effective: As mentioned, it's generally the most budget-friendly option due to reduced labor and material costs associated with construction.
- Speed of Construction: Slab foundations can be quicker to install compared to other foundation types, primarily because they don't require extensive excavation.
- Suitability for Certain Climates: Ideal for warmer, dryer climates where frost depth isn't a concern and where water tables might make basem*nts impractical.
Cons:
- Limited Access: Any repairs or modifications to plumbing or electrical systems usually require breaking into the concrete slab.
- Not Suitable for All Terrains: Slabs might not be feasible on sloped terrains without significant site preparation.
Crawlspace Foundation
Definition and Description:
A crawlspace foundation is elevated slightly above the ground and provides limited space (typically 2-3 feet) between the ground and the bottom of the home. This space allows for access to utilities and storage.
Pros:
- Economic Advantages: Generally less expensive than a full basem*nt but provides some of the benefits like accessibility.
- Utility Access: Provides easy access to plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems for maintenance and repairs.
- Protection from Flooding: In flood-prone areas, a crawlspace can act as a barrier against rising waters.
Cons:
- Moisture Issues: Crawlspaces can be susceptible to moisture, potentially leading to mold or structural damage if not adequately sealed or ventilated.
- Limited Storage: While it provides some storage space, it's less than a full basem*nt would offer.
Basem*nt Foundation
Definition and Description:
A basem*nt foundation involves constructing a full or partial underground space beneath the main level of the home, providing additional living or storage space.
Pros:
- Additional Space: Offers significant additional square footage that can be utilized for various purposes, such as recreation rooms, storage, or additional living spaces.
- Utility and Mechanical Access: Easy accessibility for utilities, making maintenance and upgrades more straightforward.
- Climate Considerations: Particularly beneficial in colder climates where the foundation needs to be below the frost line.
Cons:
- Higher Costs: Typically more expensive to construct due to excavation, foundation walls, and potential waterproofing requirements.
- Maintenance: May require additional maintenance, especially concerning waterproofing and potential moisture issues.
Types of Basem*nts
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In-Ground Basem*nt: Typically fully or mostly underground, accessed only from the main home level. Ideal for level terrains due to excavation considerations.
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Daylight or Walkout Basem*nt: Features exterior walls with windows or doors, providing natural light and direct access to the exterior. Suitable for sloped terrains and offers a less "basem*nt-like" feel.
In summary, the choice of foundation type depends on various factors such as budget, climate, terrain, and specific needs or preferences. Consulting with professionals like Christine Cooney, who has extensive experience in house plans and floor plans, can provide valuable guidance tailored to individual circ*mstances.
