3 Benefits of Solid-Pour Foundations for Alaskan Homes
A foundation is a critical element in any structure. It must bear the weight of your home, both in point load and seismically during an earthquake. It should also eliminate frost heaving, settling, rot and rodent infiltration.
A few of the most common types of foundations in Alaska are concrete block, solid-pour concrete and ICF foundations. We can also do monolithic foundations, sometimes called a “slab on grade.”
Although concrete block or ICF foundations are good options, solid-pour foundations are our preference.
Here are three reasons to consider an on-grade solid concrete foundation for your new home in Alaska:
Strength
It’s hard to argue with a solid concrete wall. They tend to have more concrete and rebar than a block foundation, and are essentially considered bullet proof. We experience this first-hand while doing renovation or remodel work when we are required to cut into or remove portions of existing foundations. Solid pour foundations are nearly always harder to demo!
Floorplan Versatility
Concrete can be formed in virtually any shape you can imagine. From a standard four-sided home to a home with unique angles, tall walls, sometimes SUPER tall walls, curved lines or arches, even concrete ceilings like in the case of a “safe” room or gun vault. It’s also possible with poured walls to do different thicknesses, say 6” or even 10” thick. Other custom features like a floor system (joists) being sunk into the crawl space can be done, for handicap accessible homes.
Scheduling
Solid pour concrete can formed and poured in below freezing temps, or in the rain, whereas block foundations cannot, without tarping and heating. This gives a more reliable schedule once construction begins, which allows the job to moving without disappointing weather delays.
Contact Falcon for Residential Concrete Services in Anchorage & the Mat-Su Valley
As a highly experienced design-build company, we can handle your entire home build, from the foundation and framing to interior and exterior finishes.
Schedule a consultation with our Alaska custom builders by contacting Falcon today.
