How Metal And Concrete Are Used To Make Home Foundations
The foundation of a building is one of the most important parts of it. Without foundation, the buildings are practically nothing. A poor foundation is just as bad as no foundation at all when it comes to construction.
Given the importance of foundation as the core component of any construction, it is important to know how they are made and what is used in making them. In this piece, we discuss the two most important materials for any foundation, I.e., concrete and metal, as well as the processes involved in constructing a foundation.
Materials Needed For Foundation
Several materials are used in making a foundation, and here are the most important.
Concrete
This is the number of construction materials, and for foundations, it is even more important. Regardless of the foundation design, concrete is necessary. Its versatility makes it perfect for the role as it can be molded easily into any shape.
Metal
Concrete cannot work alone in construction, and it usually requires reinforcements. This is what metal materials such as steelworks for. It is the number one reinforcement material.
The presence of metal in concrete is what gives it the necessary tensile strength and prevents it from cracking under serious pressure.
Metal rods or meshes are generally added to the foundation before the pouring of concrete. Given the fact that metal is prone to rust, it is usually treated first to ensure they are rust-free and stainless.
Concrete Blocks
These prebuilt bricks are made with concrete. They are generally used to protect the concrete from frost formation while also covering surfaces of the foundation that are exposed.
Waterproofing Materials
Foundations are prone to water damage which is why waterproofing materials are generally used in construction. This can come in many forms, such as rubberized asphalt, polythene, rubber, bentonite, asphaltic emulsions, etc.
Constructing a foundation
Now that we know the material needed, it’s time to get into the process.
Pick and Clear the Lot
The first step is to select a suitable space for your construction, after which you have to clear it, dig it, and level it.
Install a frame
The wooden or metal frame will serve as the mold for the concrete. It must be constructed seamlessly to serve its purpose.
Lay Metal Reinforcements
These reinforcements can come in the form of rods tied together, or it could be a wire mesh. Each serves different purposes.
Pour Concrete
Once everything is in place, the next thing is to pour concrete. The kind of concrete and its strength will depend on the foundation. For instance, the foundation of a skyscraper will not be the same as that of a bungalow. After pouring, the next thing is to make sure it cures properly.
Conclusion
Metal and concrete are essential to foundations. Without those two materials, it is impossible to construct foundations properly. For more concrete information visit www.concreteservicesdenver.com.