Concrete Block Foundation or Poured Foundation, which is Better?
The question of whether concrete block or poured concrete foundation is better has been asked since the advent of concrete block. Today, many contractors prefer poured concrete foundations because of their ease of construction and the way that they look on the other hand Concrete block is a favorite material for many homeowners in Fredericton because of its durability and affordability. This post will help you answer the question of which is better by evaluating the pros and cons of each.
What is Concrete Block Foundation?
A concrete foundation is a type of building material that is commonly used for foundations. These blocks can provide a durable, long-lasting foundation for buildings. This is typically made up of rectangular blocks of concrete. They are typically arranged into a pattern that creates a floor, walls, and sometimes a ceiling. Concrete blocks are used as an economical alternative to poured concrete. They can be used in a variety of applications, including residential and commercial construction.
Benefits
Concrete block foundations are cost-effective, they’re easy to build and maintain, and the overall look of a concrete block home adds to its aesthetic value. Concrete blocks are typically used in construction projects because they provide a sturdy and durable base for homes, schools, and other large structures. In addition to being a great base for building, concrete blocks also come in a variety of colors, making them easy to blend in with any home’s design. Foundation repair is easy in this type of material.
Drawbacks
- Building a block foundation is an excellent way to keep the house safe in an earthquake. But if the blocks are not properly reinforced, they’re not as strong as they should be.
- A weak link in the foundation itself is the mortar used to join the blocks together. It is susceptible to leaks and is considered the weakest link.
What is Poured Concrete Foundation?
Poured concrete foundations are often sought for new construction. They’ve been used since the late 1970s and have become more popular as time has gone by. A concrete block foundation is a durable, low-cost alternative that may be better suited for some applications. The cost of poured concrete varies based on the size of the slab, type of sub-grade soil, reinforcement requirements, and other factors.
Benefits
Poured concrete foundation has a long life expectancy and can be used in various situations, like for residential and commercial construction. It has good resistance to fire, high density and heat, good sound and vibration dampening properties, and a low moisture absorption. A poured concrete foundation can also reduce the need to use other materials, such as steel reinforcement, reinforcing bars, rebar, and structural members. With poured concrete, you get a more stable, longer-lasting, and water-resistant home. Poured concrete is also great for its low maintenance and cost. It requires no regular cleaning and lasts for decades.
Drawbacks
- Higher cost than other foundation types
- This type of foundation may crack
- The poured concrete foundation may be uneven
- The poured concrete foundation requires a lot of work to keep it in good shape
Hope this guide will help you to make an informed decision. If you still want to know more or are looking for a home foundation specialist for your project, contact Atlantic Brick and Stone, one of the best masonry contractors in Fredericton with trained staff. We provide all types of masonry services in Fredericton with a warranty. Call us at 506-304-0771 to discuss your project.