Excavation, Footings and Foundation
- A good foundation is essential for structural support and controlling ground water and forms part of the soil-gas control system (see Chapter 7 for more information).
- Determine the water conditions on the property, how water will be drained away from the foundation, and whether basement dampproofing will be adequate for the water conditions.
- Establish the foundation wall thickness based on the backfill height, the number of storeys to be supported and the height of the wall.
- Consider the space required for beams, ductwork and plumbing in determining the basement ceiling height.
- Consider using a higher basement ceiling height if it is likely the basement will be finished.
- Determine whether the basement insulation will be on the inside or outside of the foundation walls.
- Plan for the foundation to support a masonry chimney, if there will be one.
- Plan for pipes and services that pass through the foundation.
- Provide the required pipe stub connection for future radon removal, should radon prove to be a problem after the house is occupied.
- Determine the location of anchor bolts in the top of the foundation wall to secure the framing to the foundation.
Source : Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)
