Concrete @ your Fingertips

Simple foundations for houses

Is there a ‘Rule of thumb’ method for simple foundations for low-rise housing?

Answer

The method outlined in BRE Good Building guide 39 is suitable for low-rise housing defined as detached, semi-detached and terraced houses and flats (with not more than four self-contained dwelling units per floor accessible from one staircase), of not more than two storeys above ground, intended for domestic occupation and of masonry construction with timber roofs and with an upper floor of timber or concrete. The guidance gives a minimum trench dimension for a variety of load categories for external walls, separating and gable walls for a range of floor spans. Consideration should also be given to the proximity of any service trench and to the need to have special concrete mixes if sulfates are present in the soil.

Acknowledgement: The Concrete Society

Other references:BRE Good Building Guide 39 Part 2 Simple foundations for low-rise housing: `rule of thumb` design