Wood, Cold-formed Steel and FPSF
2004-11-10 11:07 am
DB says that i probably dont want a concrete foundation. something about radon.
i decided to do some research and find out more about the negatives of having a concrete foundation, and explore my possible alternatives.
what i found is quite alarming and has definately caused me to rethink concrete as a viable foundation material.
- The main ingredients of concrete are cement, aggregate and water, in addition to other materials refered to as "admixtures".
- Aggregate can be gravel, crushed stone, crushed volcanic rock, perlite or fly ash from power plants. If the aggregate contains radon, a common radioactive gas given off by soil and rocks which is harmful if high levels indoors, it can increase the chances of lung cancer. Fortunately, there is very little radon present in US aggregate.
- Wet concrete has several negative health effects of varying levels of seriousness.
- cracking skin, due to removing protective oils
- clogging pores of the skin
- burning of the skin due to calcium hydroxide (corrosive compound causing burns similar to those caused by lye).
- Admixtures are usually added to concrete in extremely small amounts and rarely cause negative health effects. Although they have been known to cause some problems for people who are hypersensitive to synthetic chemicals.
- There are a variety of foundation defects which can impact the stability and suitability of your home. These defects include but are not limited to
- Wall Cracks: Foundation Settlement; Pushed-in Walls; Concrete Shrinkage when originally placed; Sub-Soil Heaving and Shrinkage
- Mortar Joints: Deteriorating Mortar Joints
- Footing to Foundation Connection: No Footing 'Key Way'; Footing Sagging from Foundation
- Drain Tile: Clogged; Other Defects
- Wall Imprefections: Honeycombing; Rusted Wall Ties
What are some of the alternatives to a concrete foundation?
- Wood Foundations: lumber and plywood componenets are pressure-treated to withstand decay from moisture and termite damage; easy to construct and adaptable to various environmenttal conditions; can provide more living space in basements than houses with masonry or concrete foundations
- Cold-formed Steel Foundations: can be effective if properly designed and installed; exterior sheathing should be carefully selected to prevent corrosion
- Frost Protected Shallow Foundations (FPSF): energy saving; reduced construction costs; most efficient in cold climates
after learning so much about the cons of concrete foundations and the structural and economical benefits of the alternatives, i am prepared to make new decisions regarding my foundation going forward.
im partial to wood but considering the possible environmental impact that this choice could have, i am also inclined to go with FPSP. it will definitely take further research to come to any solid conclusions, but know that my foundation, going forward shall be sturdy, termite and corrosion resistant, energy saving, efficient in various climates, and environmentally kind.
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previously:
weather or not - 2006-03-07
My Flight - 2006-03-02
poetree in motion - 2006-02-28
ultimate personality test - 2006-02-25
limerick e-trip - 2006-02-22