When building a house, two main types of foundations are used: slab-on-grade or below-grade foundations with a basement slab. Climate, including high water tables, frost lines, harsh winters, and ...

DEAR TIM: My wife and I are building our new home, and we stopped by to see the progress just after the foundation was poured. We saw a massive long block of concrete at least 10 inches thick in the ...

Question: Do you know if it states in the IRC code that a “J”-bar must be poured in the footing if the wall requires vertical reinforcing. I have a meeting with an inspector tomorrow to discuss code ...

A CFA member asks for an interpretation of the cover requirements for dowels in a footing used to provide connection between the concrete footing and the foundation wall. 7.3.4.1 A vertical No. 4 ...

Below-grade waterproofing systems can be critical features of building enclosure design, particularly when the structure has a deep foundation. As the foundation goes deeper, there is a greater ...

Lee Wallender is a home improvement writer of nearly 20 years and specializes in home remodeling, repair and maintenance. Lowe Larretta is former lead editor for Forbes Home, covering all things ...