There are many perennial questions that have been controversial. One of them is the question: "Which foundation is better?" Today we will compare a strip foundation with a slab. Some builders are sure that the first option is distinguished by its reliability, while others believe that it is significantly inferior to the slab, both in price and in quality.
So I decided to delve into this topic. I made some conclusions that I want to share with you today.
I advise you to pay attention to the "decaying" Europe and America. There, strip foundations are rarely poured, but mainly slab foundations are made. What do Europeans and Americans know that we do not know?
So, the main advantages ...
1. Slab foundations are erected on any soil
This is the first advantage of slab foundations. Before their constructionno need to order a hydrogeological examination, and this has a positive effect on the overall budget. Already the first point makes it clear that laying a slab foundation is more profitable. But there are other benefits to be discussed.
2. Unpretentiousness to weather conditions
Slabs not afraid of bad weather conditions, they can withstand both frost and heat. There is no need to place slabs lower than the ground freezes. In any case, the soil under them will not freeze, even if severe frosts hit. The slab foundation can be laid even on clay soil, which is the second indisputable advantage.
3. Less work
Lay slab foundation faster and easier. Plates can be placed directly on the ground, however, they need a sand cushion. But this is not a very critical cost item.
Speaking of the strip foundation, it also fits on a sand cushion, and therefore this factor is not fundamental. In some cases, instead of sand, expanded clay is used, which has good thermal insulation properties. Only the price tag is quite high.
4. Savings on fittings
Suitable for reinforcing slabs budget composite rebar. It does not deform under heavy loads and is convenient for transportation. Working with composite is easier and more enjoyable. Steel rods are more reliable, but the difference in strength characteristics is insignificant.
5. Versatility - Two in one
First, monolithic slabs will become foundation the whole house. Secondly, they are also gender. In the case of a strip foundation, additional time and materials will be required to arrange the floor. Due to the fact that the slabs are monolithic, capillary moisture will not enter the house. This is a significant advantage over floor type floors. The humidity in the premises will be kept at an optimal level, which is good news for the residents!
6. Increased stability
The monolith is capable of supporting weight 10 times the loadallowed for strip foundations. When it comes to a columnar or pile type of foundation, one cannot do without preliminary calculations of the load that will be imposed on them.
When arranging a slab foundation, these calculations can be omitted. All work is carried out according to existing standards, you do not need to invent anything. The main thing is to know how much the building will weigh.
A 20-centimeter slab is capable of withstanding up to 1,000 tons. Modern buildings made of stone or brick, no more than 2 stories high, weigh about 400 tons. Those. a slab foundation can easily withstand such a structure. The only condition is to use suitable concrete and pour it correctly.
7. You can do everything yourself
For pouring concrete slabs, you do not need any specific knowledge and skills. Novice builders will also be able to cope with the installation of reinforcement and tamping of cement. You can save a significant amount if do not use the services of professionals.
The monolith demonstrates excellent performance characteristics; it does not need repair and regular maintenance. At the same time, the plates are durable and reliable.
I talked about the main advantages of the slab foundation, which seem very significant to me. If you have not yet decided on the type of foundation, I hope my conclusions will help you!
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