Ultimate Guide for Foundation Construction

Written By Adam Paul - Waterproofing Expert

A foundation is a structural base of a building that transfers its load to the ground. Its primary role is to provide stability, prevent settlement, and protect the structure from shifting or sinking.

When you construct a foundation, you should choose which type of foundation is suitable for your structure. Then you should prepare the site preparation for checking soils and other investigations as well as cleaning for further constructions. Using the bearing capacity data and soil structure, you should design the foundation according to the standard foundation codes and regulations.

After the design process, you should construct the foundation using high quality materials like concrete and steel (rebar). You should prepare formwork and reinforcement before the foundation concreting and follow the below step-by-step guide for better foundation construction. Aqviz highly recommends you hire a professional service to save your time and money efficiently.

If the foundation is not constructed in a proper way it can be cracked, material deterioration, water damage, and reduce the structural integrity over time. That’s why Aqvize emphasizes expert planning, waterproofing solutions, and durable construction techniques to create a foundation for a long time.

Aqviz experts have prepared the Ultimate foundation guide for homeowners who have lack of knowledge of foundation construction. We have included the most important facts and tasks here. So we welcome you for any problem any time.

Choose the Right Type of Foundation

Choosing the right type of foundation depends on the structural load and soil bearing capacity. by considering these, the foundation types are two main types, such as shallow foundation and deep foundation.

Shallow Foundations

A shallow foundation is a type of foundation that transfers the load of a structure to the ground at a relatively shallow depth, typically no more than 3 meters (10 feet) below the surface. It is used when the soil near the surface has sufficient bearing capacity to support the structure without excessive settlement. Shallow foundations are mainly 3 types

Spread footing foundation: Spread footing foundation distributes the building load over a broad area. It is often used for small to mid-sized homes with stable soil conditions.
Slab on grade foundation: A slab on grade foundation is a single concrete slab poured directly on the ground. It is commonly used in warm climates where frost heave isn’t a concern.
Mat/Raft foundations: Mat/Raft foundations is a large, continuous slab that supports the entire building. It is ideal for weak soils to spread the load evenly.

Deep Foundations

A deep foundation is a type of foundation that transfers the load of a structure deep into the ground. Deep foundation reaches the deep layers of soil or rock with sufficient bearing capacity. It is used when shallow foundations cannot support the structure due to weak or unstable surface soil. Deep foundations typically extend beyond 3 meters (10 feet) below ground level. Deep foundations are mainly 3 types such as,

Pile foundations: Pile foundations made of concrete, steel, or wood, piles are driven (hammered) or bored (drilled) deep into the ground for stability.
Drilled shafts/caissons: Large-diameter concrete shafts that provide strong support, often used for bridges and high-rises.
Pile walls foundation: A pile wall foundation is a series of piles placed closely together, useful for retaining walls or deep excavations.

For homeowners, we highly recommend you go for a shallow foundation. It is suitable and cost efficient.

What is the Best Foundation for Home?

After choosing the shallow foundation, you should choose whether it is a slab foundation, crawlspace foundation, basement foundation, or pier and beam foundation. These are the 4 types of special foundations that we use for homes and shallow constructions.

Slab foundation: Slab foundations are solid concrete layers poured directly onto the ground. Monolithic slabs are a single continuous pour, making them cost-effective and quick to construct. Slab foundations minimize construction time, they offer limited access to plumbing and electrical systems beneath the structure.
Crawlspace foundations: Crawlspace foundations elevate homes slightly above ground level, creating a small, accessible space for utilities. This type is common in areas with moderate moisture levels. However, without proper waterproofing and ventilation, crawl spaces can trap humidity, leading to mold and wood rot.
Basement foundations: Basement foundations offer extra living or storage space while providing structural support. They require deep excavation and reinforced concrete walls. While basements increase home value, they are prone to water infiltration.
Pier and beam foundations: Pier and beam foundations use elevated concrete piers and wooden beams to support structures, making them ideal for areas with shifting soil. They provide easy access to utilities but can be vulnerable to moisture damage if not properly sealed.

Read more about: Ultimate Basement Construction Guide

After choosing the right foundation time, you should prepare your site for construction.

Site Preparation and Investigation

Site preparation investigation helps to determine which type of foundation is suitable for the soil types. In this step, you should do soil testing, geotechnical surveys, and site clearing.

Soil testing and analysis (bearing capacity, composition): The bearing capacity of the soil determines how much load can bear per one square meter. It helps to keep the foundation more stable. Soil bearing capacities help engineers to choose the right foundation type. As well as it helps to determine the type of soil and its behaviors as clay-rich soils expand and contract easily with the water, while sandy soils may lack the stability of the foundation.
Geotechnical surveys: A geotechnical survey evaluates subsurface conditions, identifying potential risks like high water tables or loose soil. These surveys guide excavation depth, foundation reinforcements, and waterproofing strategies. If you ignore this step, it can lead to foundation failures, costing homeowners thousands in repairs after construction.
Site clearing, excavation, and grading: Before foundation work begins, the site must be cleared of vegetation, debris, and unstable soil. Excavation ensures the foundation sits at the correct depth, while grading directs water away from the structure. Poor grading can lead to water pooling around the foundation, a common cause of moisture damage. We always recommend you to maintain proper ground grading and drainage system on the land to remove excess water properly.

What Should you Consider for Foundation Design?

When you design your foundation, you should consider load bearing capacity, soil structure, environmental factors, and building codes properly.

Load-bearing requirements: Load bearing capacity is the value to hold live (occupants, furniture) and dead loads (walls, roof) of the foundation.
Soil-structure interaction (settlement, differential settlement): Soil structure identification helps to observe the settlements between soil layers. Settlement occurs when the foundation sinks evenly, while differential settlement happens when one side settles more than the other, causing cracks and tilts. We mitigate this by using proper soil compaction, deep footings, and moisture control techniques.
Environmental factors (water table, frost line, drainage): Then you should consider environmental factors such as water table, frost line, and drainage. High water tables increase the risk of hydrostatic pressure and basement leaks, while frost lines dictate how deep foundations must be to prevent freezing-related damage. Good drainage, such as sloped landscaping and sump pumps.
Building codes, permits, and regulations: You should pay attention to the building codes for foundation construction for local approvals. When you align with building codes, it helps to ensure the foundation’s safety and durability. So Aqvize, we highly recommend you follow related building codes and take the necessary steps according to them.

If there is a higher water table near the foundation you can follow these 5 High Water Table Foundation Solutions to minimize the effect of the high water table.

Choose the Suitable Foundation Materials.

After the design process, you should choose a suitable foundation material. Foundation materials are mainly two types, such as construction materials, and protection materials. Construction materials are concrete, rebar, stone, etc. Protection materials are sealers, waterproofing membranes, and barriers.

Concrete mixes and reinforcement (rebar, mesh): Concrete is the most used foundation material. Concrete is used with steel (rebar, mesh) to improve its strength. The strength of a foundation depends on the concrete mix and reinforcement. High-quality concrete resists cracking and shifting, while steel reinforcement (rebar, mesh) adds structural integrity. We use well-calibrated mixes to withstand pressure and prevent moisture infiltration.
Waterproofing membranes and insulation: Waterproofing membranes protect against moisture penetration, a crucial factor in basement and crawlspace foundations. Insulation helps regulate temperature and prevents frost heave in colder regions. At Aqviz Waterproofing, we install premium membranes and thermal barriers to enhance durability.

6 Steps for Foundation Construction

These are the 6 steps to construct the foundation from starting to finish.

Layout and marking: The first step in foundation construction is accurately marking the building footprint. This involves using survey tools, stakes, and string lines to outline where the foundation will be placed. Proper layout ensures alignment, prevents measurement errors, and avoids costly adjustments later.
Excavation and footing installation: Excavation involves digging trenches or pits based on foundation depth requirements. Footings, the base that distributes the building load, are then installed. Their size and depth depend on soil conditions and structural load. Poorly constructed footings lead to uneven settling, so we ensure they are reinforced and poured on solid, compacted soil.
Formwork and Reinforcement Setup: Formwork and reinforcement is essential to cast the concrete foundation. Formwork holds the concrete in place until it sets, maintaining the foundation’s shape. Reinforcement, such as rebar and steel mesh, adds strength and prevents cracking. We ensure proper spacing and alignment of reinforcement bars to enhance the foundation’s durability.
Pouring, Curing, and Finishing Concrete: Concrete is poured in layers to avoid air pockets and ensure even distribution. Vibrators help eliminate voids and improve bonding. The curing process, which takes about 28 days, is critical for strength. We keep the concrete moist during curing to prevent cracks and premature weakening.
Waterproofing and Drainage Systems: Foundation waterproofing is essential to prevent water-related damage to the foundation. As the first step, place a vapor barrier and then dampproof the foundation for better water and moisture protection. We also install a waterproofing membrane on the foundation surface. If there is higher water seepage, we have to install a French drain system in the foundation to remove excessive water effectively. Aqviz Waterproofing helps you to conduct all of these steps from start to finish. So reach us today!
Backfilling and Compaction: Once waterproofing is complete, backfilling is done using soil or gravel.
Follow Safety Protocols and Equipment (Excavators, Vibrators): During the whole project, you should maintain safety properly. Workers must wear protective gear, and trenches should be reinforced to prevent collapses. Aqviz, we strongly recommend you to prioritize safety in construction practices to protect both workers and homeowners.

Foundation Quality Control and Inspection

Ensuring the quality of a foundation during its construction stage by checking concrete strength and following other structural guidance. After the foundation construction, it should be inspected for foundation cracks and other damages for further treatment.

Concrete strength testing (slump, cylinder tests): Concrete strength determines how well the foundation will bear loads without cracking or deteriorating. The slump test checks workability an ideal slump value ranges from 3 to 5 inches for standard foundations. The cylinder test, conducted at 7 and 28 days, ensures concrete meets strength requirements, typically around 3,000 to 5,000 psi depending on the design. Testing helps prevent weak or brittle foundations.
Addressing cracks and imperfections: Cracks in foundations can be an early sign of structural problems. Hairline cracks (<1/16 inch) are usually cosmetic, while cracks wider than 1/8 inch may indicate structural movement. Horizontal cracks or step cracks in masonry can signal serious foundation shifts. We recommend sealing small cracks with epoxy injections and addressing larger cracks with structural reinforcements to prevent further damage.

Determine the Foundation Problems

After the foundation construction, you should determine the problems. Foundation problems occur due to structural issues and soil behavior.

Cracks, settling, and water infiltration in foundation: Foundations problems occur due to foundation settlement, moisture changes, or poor construction. Settlement happens when the soil beneath a foundation shifts, causing uneven sinking. Water infiltration through foundation cracks can lead to mold, basement flooding, and structural weakening. Installing foundation waterproofing membranes, drainage systems, and proper grading help prevent these issues.
Soil expansion/contraction issues: Expansive clay soils absorb water and swell, then shrink during dry periods, causing foundations to heave or settle. These soil movements put stress on foundations, leading to cracks and misalignment. We recommend using moisture control techniques, such as proper drainage and soil stabilization, to mitigate expansion risks.

If you do not fix these problems as soon as possible you can see these 11 signs of water damages in the foundation. Prolonged foundation damages cause to fail the foundation over time. In order to prevent foundation problems you should maintain the foundation properly.

How to Waterproof the Foundation?

You can waterproof the foundation by following these 8 steps.

8 steps for foundation waterproofing

Choose tools and materials for foundation waterproofing
Identify the water-leaking areas inside the foundation
Choose the suitable foundation waterproofing method and drainage system
Clean the foundation wall
Seal the cracks on the foundation using primer
Install the waterproofing membrane on the foundation wall
Build a drainage system around the foundation perimeter
Install the sump pump in the foundation sump basin

Read this guide to learn in-depth about How to waterproof foundation?. Aqviz experts have included all in details about foundation waterproofing from start to finish.

Is Exterior Foundation Waterproofing Better than Interior?

Yes, exterior foundation waterproofing is better than interior foundation waterproofing. Exterior foundation waterproofing helps to reduce the hydrostatic pressure and prevent the water from reaching the foundation walls in the first place. It helps to drain the water effectively and prevent water leaks, mold and mildew growth in the basement. Exterior waterproofing is highly recommended for the newly constructed foundations. When exterior foundation waterproofing is applied to existing foundations it is costly, labor-intensive, and requires excavation around the foundation.

Advantages of Bituminous Waterproofing for Foundation?

These are the advantages of using bituminous waterproofing for foundations

Bituminous waterproofing has excellent water resistance
Strong adhesion to concrete foundation walls
Flexible and crack-resistant
Long-lasting durability on foundation
Resistant to chemicals and salts in soil
Can be used on various foundation types
Provides an additional protective layer against moisture
Easy to apply with brush, roller, or spray
Cost-effective compared to some other waterproofing methods
Reduces the risk of mold and mildew formation

Why You Should Waterproof Exterior Foundation Walls?

You should waterproof the exterior foundation wall to control the water table height near the foundation wall. The exterior foundation consists of a damproofing layer. It helps to drain the water near the foundation wall and pump it out through the sump pump. Lower water table helps to reduce the hydrostatic pressure and it prevents water leak, and seepage into the basement. That prevents mold and mildew growth, musty odor, and other possible water damage in the foundation.

Should I Waterproof a Concrete Foundation?

Yes, you should waterproof a concrete foundation. Because concrete is a permeable material. when the concrete is saturated with water, it tends to leak the water from the material. This cause to water seepage in the foundation wall. That cause many water damages in the foundation. When answering the question of how to waterproof a concrete foundation?, Aqviz experts have prepared a detailed guide for the concrete foundation waterproofing with including all the details.

Before you start your waterproofing project during the foundation construction process we highly recommend you to read that. Please reach us if there is any problem you have.