Construction & Contractors Blog
Contractors frequently use foundation forms during the construction of buildings. While they often make projects cheaper and faster, it's wise to know both the pros and cons of the foundation form installation method. Here are 6 things all customers should know before they commit to this approach.
Pro: Simplicity
Setting up a foundation using pre-designed forms makes it easier to follow blueprints, especially for buildings that only use straight lines. If you're working from a grid layout, for example, foundation forms will make it simple to translate the design from paper to real-world application.
Con: Lack of Customization
Especially with more complex forms, such as curves, forms can be challenging. In such scenarios, building the foundation with blocks may make it easier to create the desired shape. Notably, you can employ a mixed solution. The foundation forms will allow you to handle the straight portions of the design, and then you can install the curved area with a different method.
Pro: Solidity
Pouring a wall of concrete and letting it cure ensures you'll have a single slab. This will reduce the chances that water or ice will get into the foundation and cause trouble. Likewise, the solid wall will minimize potential risks associated with shifting. It's also fairly easy to add rebar for reinforcement during the pouring process.
Con: Curing Time
Any type of poured concrete requires time to cure. Especially if the engineering requirements for the project call for thick walls, you may be looking at several days for curing to complete. On the bright side, that often makes it a good part of the project to schedule for a Friday so you can just come back Monday and resume work.
Mixed: Seams
Using a foundation form installation system will leave behind seams. Each section will have gaps, but these can be filled with caulk or foam. With fewer gaps that you'd get with blocks, for example, the seams will be more energy-efficient. This can also reduce the amount of dust that gets into the building, potentially reducing allergens, too.
Pro: Wiring and Plumbing
When using foundation forms, you'll have the ability to install channels. This will allow you to run wires and pipes through the walls. However, you should always be extra careful wherever these channels meet the outside world because they can end up acting as sluices. A combination of flashing, spray foam, and sealant, though, will usually tighten things up enough to prevent trouble.
Share23 November 2020
My name is Debbie Greenberg. I’m a single woman who owns her home, and like most homeowners I dread home repairs. I’m not very handy with do-it-yourself projects around the house. I can do a few minor repairs when necessary, but for the most part I have to call in a professional. Last year I had a leak in my roof. When it rained, water would leak into my kitchen. What appeared to be a simple fix turned out to be anything but simple. It took over four months to finally identify the problem, and double the money I was initially quoted to fix it. The problem ended up being that the flat part of my roof didn't have shingles, but a sheeting material. I learned a bit about home roofs along the way, and that is what I want to share with you.
