Two structural alternatives to house foundations and footings are piles and piers. Piles are driven deep into soil while piers are columns cemented into the ground. In certain soil conditions, these two alternatives may be best to use.
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House foundations and footers are subject to all sorts of forces which can cause them to fail. Cracks in concrete footings could possibly lead to collapse of the entire structure. Among the forces acting on residential footings and foundations are gravity, soil swelling and frost heaving.
House foundations and residential footings are crucial to the success of a building. Footings and foundations, when properly designed, withstand all the forces of a house. These foundation footings should be constructed from durable materials.
Vapor barriers used beneath ceramic tile are not ordinary plastic poly vapor barriers. These high performance vapor barriers keep water out with two layers of materials. Here are some vapor barrier manufacturers.
Prepare detailed building plans with all specifications to minimize or avoid project delays and costly change orders. Ask your contractor for a timeline, preselect all materials, and monitor project progress to make your project go forward without delays.
Create an accurate, realistic timeline to minimize or eliminate project delays. Timelines list all major tasks and key materials needed to complete your project.
3 ring binders will help you get organized and keep your construction on target. Contractors and subcontractors can refer to the binder at the jobsite. Three ring binders are a simple, inexpensive way of getting organized in your project, and these binders can save money, mistakes, delays and conflict.
Avoid costly change orders whenever possible by selecting all materials before work begins. If your plans must change, get all specifications and details in writing from contractors on the change order. Leave nothing to question!
Get accurate construction bids by preselecting all materials to eliminate allowances. Get itemized quotes and liability certificates to compare all builders.
Finding a good architect may take some research. Architects receive little residential training. To locate a good residential architect, follow this little known technique.
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