Different Types of Foundations & Their Usage

Several types of foundations and footings can be used for buildings. Over time, foundations can get damaged, and repairing them is required. However, before getting any foundation repaired, it’s critical to understand its type first.

So, below are some of the most common types of foundations and footings include:

1. Shallow Foundations

Shallow foundations are typically used for smaller buildings or structures. They are usually not more than a few feet deep and can be made from various materials, such as concrete, brick, stone, or wood.

2. Deep Foundations

Deep foundations are typically used for more significant buildings or structures. They are usually much more profound than shallow foundations and can be made from concrete, steel, or timber.

3. Pile Foundations

Pile foundations are used when the soil is unsuitable for other types of foundations. They are made by driving long, thick posts into the ground until they reach a solid layer of soil. The building is then constructed on top of these posts.

4. Pad Foundations

Pad foundations are used when the soil is too soft or unstable to support a building on a shallow foundation. They are made by excavating a hole and filling it with concrete or other strong material. The building is then constructed on top of this pad.

5. Floating Foundations

Floating foundations are used in areas where the soil is too soft to support a building on a traditional foundation. They are made by excavating a hole and filling it with concrete or other strong material. The building is then constructed on this pad and floats on the soil.

6. Retaining walls

Retaining walls are used to support a building on sloped or uneven ground. They are made by excavating a trench and filling it with concrete or other strong material. The building is then constructed on top of this wall.

7. Caissons

Caissons are used in areas where the soil is too soft or unstable to support a building on a traditional foundation. They are made by excavating a hole and filling it with concrete or other strong material. The building is then constructed on top of this pad.

8. Piers

Piers support a building on sloped or uneven ground. They are made by driving long, thick posts into the ground until they reach a solid layer of soil. The building is then constructed on top of these posts.

9. Mat Foundations

Mat foundations are used in areas where the soil is too soft or unstable to support a building on a traditional foundation. They are made by excavating a hole and filling it with concrete or other strong material. The building is then constructed on top of this pad.

The cost of each foundation also depends on the size of the project, the location, the materials to use, and the company to hire.

At JR Southern Underpinning, we have extensive experience with foundations and footings. Regardless of your foundation, we have the skills, knowledge, expertise, equipment and experience to repair it without any hassle.

So, if you are in Adelaide looking to enhance or repair your house foundations at an affordable price, contact John at JR Southern Underpinning.