There are several things about commercial building’s foundations that are similar to residential buildings. There are many factors that come into play when they are being constructed like the soil and drainage to ensure the foundation is stable and healthy. However, there is a big difference and that is the load bearing capacity. While there are some similarities, there are some differences that are present. DuraTech Texas is here to talk a bit about commercial building foundations and what types of foundations are best in these settings.

Structural Elements of Commercial Building Foundations

When it comes to commercial building foundations, there are a variety of structural elements that are dealt with. All of the factors involved need to be taken into consideration when any commercial building foundation project is just getting started. These factors could include:
– Dead Loads: Walls, floors & ceilings
– Live Loads: People & vehicles
– Environmental Loads: Strong wind, hurricanes & extreme temperatures

Different Types of Foundations Used for Commercial Buildings

There are a few different types of foundations that are used for commercial buildings. The one that you choose to use should be chosen depending on the factors that are listed above. Here are the different types of foundations used in commercial settings.
– Piles: This foundation reaches deep into the ground. It reaches so deep that it makes it through any soil that is unstable and rests on top of rock. Piles are long cylinders or columns that are commonly made from concrete or steel. If there is high water content where the building is constructed, piles are often used.
– T-Shape: In areas where the ground freezes often, T-shape foundations are the foundation of choice. The footings are found just below the frost line and walls are then built on top. These foundations will help to distribute pressure caused by frozen soil.
– Spot Footing: This shallow footing is often called a continuous footing as well. There are grade beams or columns that to distribute the building’s structural load into the soil and around the foundation. Concrete and rebar are used to reinforce the foundation and carry more weight.
– Spread Footing: This type of individual footing is used to support foundations that are wider at the bottom rather than the top. They help to spread the weight over a larger surface area.
– Mat: When the soil found beneath the foundation doesn’t have a high load bearing capacity, this foundation is used. It is also called a raft foundation. This foundation is similar to a slab foundation.
– Slab: A slab on grade foundation is the most economical choice and is often the foundation of choice for commercial buildings for that reason. Of course, this is the foundation used in areas that don’t get a lot of freezing temperatures.

Foundation Repair Services & More in Crosby, Cypress, Friendswood & Greater Houston, Texas

If you are having issues with your foundation, you can turn to DuraTech Texas to cover your foundation repair. Call us today!