Choosing a foundation for a house is a key aspect of
construction, as it determines the stability and reliability of the entire
structure. Therefore, investors typically devote significant attention and
resources to selecting the optimal option. The construction industry is experiencing
significant technological advancement, offering a wide range of materials and
construction methods.
Comparison of
Foundations
Thermal Conductivity
There is a common misconception that a concrete foundation
is considered warm, while a pile foundation is considered cold. This assertion,
though common, is erroneous. Concrete is a well-known and widely used material
in construction. However, this does not mean it is more versatile or reliable
than piles.
Concrete has high thermal conductivity, which means it heats
up and cools down quickly. This also means that concrete freezes faster,
ultimately leading to a noticeable cooling of the floor. Furthermore, a
concrete foundation requires waterproofing, which increases construction costs.
Insulation is also required for a screw pile foundation.
However, the pile itself can be covered with siding or corrugated sheeting to
protect it from strong winds. Providing ventilation for a concrete foundation
is challenging, partly due to its structure. In this regard, screw piles are
more practical because the soil beneath them dries faster without causing
negative consequences, as might happen, for example, with a wooden sauna floor
built on a concrete foundation. Wooden
saunas installed on screw pile foundations last a long time, maintaining their
original appearance.
Therefore, both concrete and screw pile foundations can be
insulated. However, screw piles are more suitable for all types of houses
because they are better ventilated.
Protection of Utilities
A concrete foundation provides protection for utilities,
while a screw pile foundation does not.
The solution to this problem is quite simple: special
measures must be taken to protect utilities from freezing. The type of
foundation used has no direct impact on this aspect. It is important to locally
protect all necessary pipes from cold and sudden temperature changes, and to
locate them below the frost line. In addition, it's important to ensure a
constant heating and hot water supply throughout the year, and consider other
factors affecting the safety of utility systems.
Basement
There is a common misconception that the basement doesn't
require insulation when using a concrete foundation, while it does when using a
screw foundation.
However, in practice, it's necessary to insulate the floors
of both strip and screw pile foundations. This doesn't require significant
financial investment, as thermal insulation materials such as foam or
polyurethane foam are readily available and easy to use.
Furthermore, it's essential to insulate the walls,
regardless of the foundation type. Various materials can be used for this
purpose, such as siding, decorative stone, tiles, or natural facing materials.
However, the type of foundation doesn't affect the need for wall insulation.
Installation Depth
It's important to understand that the issue of foundation
installation depth is extremely important and requires careful consideration
and knowledge. Regardless of the chosen foundation type—screw piles or
concrete—it must be installed at a certain depth in accordance with established
norms and standards.
It's worth noting that a shallow foundation can be subject
to deformation and damage due to severe frost. Although visual signs of this
process may be unnoticeable, its consequences will become apparent over time in
the form of deformations and cracks. Therefore, it's crucial to install the
foundation deep enough to ensure it's located outside the frost zone. In this
context, the type of foundation chosen isn't as important as compliance with all
installation standards and regulations, as well as the use of specialized
equipment.
Reliability
The assertion that screw pile foundations are less durable
than strip foundations requires some clarification. The key factor here is the
quality of the work performed, which is determined not only by the chosen
foundation type but also by its proper installation.
Regardless of the foundation chosen, the quality of the work
performed, the professionalism of the contractors, and the use of appropriate
equipment and technology are crucial.
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