The foundation - the structure


Many constructions and building projects that are built on the ground require a solid foundation. This is made by a foundation. Here are some factors particularly important. So too the construction of a foundation.

Foundations in almost all ground based structures

Maybe you have already seen a parasol in a concrete base. In principle, this is also a foundation. The biggest foundations relevant to do-it-yourself are those for a building. But even bridges or other engineering designs can not do without foundations.

The quality of concrete mix and types of foundations

An important point is always the mixing ratio of the concrete foundation. As a rule of thumb, the larger and more sustainable a foundation must be, the more important is the mixing ratio, which is then partly regulated by statutory provisions in the DIN and other texts. There are basically three different types of foundations:

  • the dot foundation
  • the strip foundation
  • the plate foundation

The slab foundation can not be equated with a concrete slab. Thus, even a building (its load-bearing walls) can rest on a strip foundation, while the gap is poured with concrete slabs.

The concrete construction of foundations

The decisive difference is then often not only in the mixing ratio of the concrete, but also in the structure. An optimal foundation is structured as follows:

  • compacted soil
  • gravel layer
  • waterproof film
  • steel-reinforced concrete foundation

The correct structure of a foundation also includes its depth. When digging a foundation, it should be at least 0.80 m deep.

Frost protection as a requirement for foundation construction

Decisive here is the frost resistance of the foundation. Because the soil can freeze between 0.80 and 1.20 m, even in extremely cold regions of Europe even to 1.50 m deep. On average, frost protection at 80 cm is guaranteed in Germany. But keep in mind that it can freeze much deeper in shady valleys in the low mountain ranges or the Alps.

The gradual construction of a foundation in detail

First, you have to dig at least 80 cm deep. So that the foundation really rests reasonably frost-proof, with an additional gravel layer at least 90 cm deep can be dug.

Point foundations do not necessarily require a gravel layer, strip foundations should be in a thickness from 10 to 20 cm. For ground slab foundations, the ballast layer can reach 50 cm and more.

The gravel or gravel is conventionally used with a 16/32 grit after the soil has been compacted underneath. On the gravel or gravel layer is now a waterproof film. Then the steel reinforcement is designed as a steel mat. Only now can the actual foundation be poured.

Tips & Tricks

The gravel layer makes sense even with a point foundation. Because, in principle, nothing else than an additional protection for frost protection. The water is not directly under the foundation, but can seep away. If the water is still there, it has enough room to freeze when freezing without lifting and destroying the foundation.

Article picture: klemen cerkovnik / Shutterstock

The foundation - the structure

FAQ - 💬

❓ Is the foundation part of the structure?

👉 Foundation is that part of the structure which is generally constructed below the ground level. It is often confused that foundation is constructed to take up the load of the structure or to support it.

❓ What type of structure is foundation?

👉 To conclude, the foundation is a structural supporting member that transfers the total load form slab, beam, column, wall, etc. The main objective of the foundation is to provide stability to the total structure and safely transfer the total load from the structure to the soil at an optimum cost.

❓ How important is a foundation to a structure?

👉 Its primary purpose is to support the load of the entire building. A well-designed and strong foundation keeps the building standing while the forces of nature wreak havoc. Well-built foundations keep the occupants of the building safe during calamities such as an earthquake, floods, strong winds etc.

❓ What is the difference between foundation and structure?

👉 Foundation is the lowest part of structure. Foundation is a part of structure which transfers load from super structure to footing and footing is the structure which is in contact with ground.

❓ What are the 3 purposes of foundation?

👉 Purpose of Foundation : To load the bearing surface at a uniform rate so as to prevent unequal settlement. To prevent the lateral movement of the supporting material. To secure a level and firm bed for building operations.

❓ What are the 3 types of foundations?

👉 Foundation types vary, but likely your house or home's addition does or will have one of these three foundations: full or daylight basement, crawlspace, or concrete slab-on-grade.

❓ What is foundation explain?

👉 foundation, Part of a structural system that supports and anchors the superstructure of a building and transmits its loads directly to the earth. To prevent damage from repeated freeze-thaw cycles, the bottom of the foundation must be below the frost line.

❓ What's the purpose of a foundation?

👉 Broadly speaking, a foundation is a nonprofit corporation or a charitable trust that makes grants to organizations, institutions, or individuals for charitable purposes such as science, education, culture, and religion.

❓ What are the types of foundation?

👉 There are five main foundation types and a handful of important variations.

  • Basement Foundation. ...
  • Crawlspace Stem Walls. ...
  • Concrete Slab Foundations. ...
  • Wood Foundations. ...
  • Pier and Beam Foundations.

❓ What is a foundation plan?

👉 The foundation plan is a plan view drawing, in section, showing the location and size of footings, piers, columns, foundation walls, and supporting beams. A foundation plan ordinarily includes the following: • Footings for foundation walls, piers, and columns (hidden lines)

❓ What are the 4 types of foundation?

👉 There are five main foundation types and a handful of important variations.

  • Basement Foundation. ...
  • Crawlspace Stem Walls. ...
  • Concrete Slab Foundations. ...
  • Wood Foundations. ...
  • Pier and Beam Foundations.

👉 Foundation is the part of the structure below the plinth level in direct contact of soil and transmits the load of superstructure to the ground. Generally, it is below the ground level.

👉 In engineering, a foundation is the element of a structure which connects it to the ground, transferring loads from the structure to the ground. Foundations are generally considered either shallow or deep.

👉 Being the portion above the ground surface, the upper part is called super-structure while the lower part, the sub structure or foundation. The foundation acts as an interface between the super-structure and that part lying under the soil.

👉 Procedure for construction of foundation starts with a decision on its depth, width, and marking layout for excavation and centerline of foundation. Foundation is the part of the structure below the plinth level in direct contact of soil and transmits the load of superstructure to the ground. Generally, it is below the ground level.


Video Board: Types Of Foundation - Types Of Foundation In Civil Engineering In Urdu/Hindi