Union City Concrete Works

Building Strong: The Importance of Quality Concrete Foundations in Union City

Importance of Quality Concrete Foundations

At Union City Concrete Works, we know that a solid foundation is crucial for any structure. In our dense urban environment, where buildings often stand close together and soil conditions can be challenging, a well-constructed concrete foundation is more important than ever. Let’s explore why quality foundations matter and what goes into creating them.

concrete foundation

What Makes Concrete Foundations So Important

  • Structural Strength
    • Carries the total weight of the building
    • Spreads out the weight so that it doesn’t settle unevenly
  • Waterproof Layer
    • Prevents water from rising through the ground
    • Prevents mold and mildew problems
  • Insulating Properties
    • Will contribute to your home being energy efficient
    • Will help keep the temperature inside your home steady and constant
  • Long-Term Performance
    • A well-constructed foundation will last for many years to come
    • Will be less likely to have expensive repairs done to it

Common Types of Concrete Foundations Used In The Union City Area

  • Slab-on-Grade
    • This type of foundation works best in low frost conditions
    • It is cost-effective and easy to lay down
  • Crawl Space
    • Allows for easier access to utility lines
    • Has a better chance of keeping water from coming into your basement if there is a flood
  • Full Basement
    • Is the most common type of foundation used in residential construction
    • Has the ability to add additional living space, as well as additional storage space
  • Deep Foundation Systems
    • Are used when constructing a building that is higher than normal
    • Or when the soil condition is poor; includes piling and caisson

Items That Affect How You Design Your Concrete Foundation In The Union City Area

  • Soil Conditions
    • Each type of soil (clay, sand, etc.) requires a different approach
    • You must test the soil before designing your foundation
  • Water Table Level
    • If the water table level is high, then you will have to consider using some sort of waterproofing system
    • In addition to how deep to dig your foundation, the depth also affects your drainage system
  • Weight and Distribution of the Structure
    • How much does the building weigh?
    • What is the distribution of the weight?
  • Local Building Code Requirements
    • There are specific building code requirements for foundations in Union City
    • We make sure that all of our projects meet, or exceed, the local requirements
  • Seismic Activity
    • Even though we don’t live in a high-risk area, we do take into consideration seismic activity

Advancements in Foundation Technology

  • Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF)
    • Will provide you with superior insulation
    • Will increase your home’s energy efficiency
  • Self-Consolidating Concrete
    • Will flow into any complex form
    • Will allow you to reduce the amount of vibration needed
  • Fiber-Reinforced Concrete
    • Will improve the strength of your concrete
    • Will improve the resistance to cracking in your concrete
    • May reduce or eliminate the need for steel rebar
  • Green Concrete
    • Will use recycled products
    • Will reduce the environmental impact of your home

Indications of a Problematic Foundation

  • Wall cracks
  • Floor cracks
  • Sticking doors or windows
  • Floors that are uneven or sloped
  • Gaps between walls and ceilings
  • Water leaks in your basement/crawl space

Why Should I Choose Union City Concrete Works For My Foundation Needs?

  • Knowledge of the soil and building conditions in Union City
  • Use of high-quality materials and the latest technologies
  • Strict adherence to all local building codes/standards
  • Experienced team of professionals in the field of foundations
  • Commitment to building a strong, durable home that will last for years to come

Tips For Maintaining Your Concrete Foundation

  • Proper drainage must be maintained around your home
  • Regularly check for cracks or signs of settling
  • Take care of any water issues right away
  • Keep the soil moisture consistent around your home’s foundation
  • Have a professional inspect your home regularly

Are You Planning On Building or Renovating a Property in Union City?

A high-quality concrete foundation is the first step to having a safe, durable, and valuable structure. Whether you’re planning on building a brand-new home, renovating an older home, or repairing problems with your current home’s foundation, Union City Concrete Works can help guide you through this process to ensure your project begins with a solid foundation.

Call us today to schedule a consultation on your foundation needs. We look forward to working with you to establish a solid foundation for your property.

Union City Concrete Works – Building a solid future for the residents of Union City, one foundation at a time.