Concrete Foundations & Footings

Why Foundations Matter

Your foundation is the most critical part of any structure. It supports the entire weight of the building and keeps it level and stable over time. A poorly built foundation leads to settling, cracking, and structural problems that are expensive and difficult to fix.

A properly installed concrete foundation or footing distributes weight evenly, resists soil movement, and prevents moisture damage. Whether you are building a new home, adding a room, or constructing an outbuilding, your foundation needs to be done right the first time. Learn more about our professional concrete services in Hawthorne.

Types of Foundations and Footings

Different structures need different types of foundations. Here are the most common types we install:

• Slab-on-grade foundations: A single-pour concrete slab that serves as both the foundation and the floor. Common for single-story homes and garages.
• Stem wall foundations: A concrete footing with a raised stem wall that supports the structure above. Provides a crawl space and better drainage.
• Pier and beam foundations: Concrete piers or footings that support beams and the structure above. Good for sloped lots or areas with unstable soil.
• Strip footings: Continuous concrete footings that run along the perimeter of the structure. Used for load-bearing walls.
• Isolated footings: Individual concrete pads that support columns or posts. Common for decks, pergolas, and outbuildings.

We help you choose the right foundation type based on your structure, soil conditions, and budget. For related projects, check out our concrete slab and flatwork services.

What Goes into a Strong Foundation

Building a strong foundation requires attention to detail and adherence to local building codes. Here is what we focus on:

• Proper excavation: We dig to the correct depth below the frost line and remove unstable soil.
• Compacted base: A solid, compacted base prevents settling and provides drainage.
• Accurate formwork: We build precise forms to ensure the foundation is level and square.
• Reinforcement: We use rebar and tie wire to add tensile strength and control cracking.
• Quality concrete: We use the right concrete mix for the job, with proper water-cement ratio and additives.
• Proper curing: We protect the concrete while it cures to ensure it reaches full strength.

These steps ensure your foundation stays stable and crack-free for the life of your structure. For foundation repairs, see our concrete repair and restoration services.

The Installation Process

Installing a concrete foundation is a multi-step process that requires planning and precision. Here is what to expect:

First, we meet with you and your builder or architect to review plans and specifications. We verify dimensions, footing depths, and reinforcement requirements. Then we excavate the site, compact the base, and build forms.

Next, we install rebar and tie wire according to the plans. We inspect everything before the pour to ensure it meets code. On pour day, we bring in fresh concrete, place it carefully, and consolidate it to eliminate air pockets. We finish the top surface level and smooth.

After the pour, we protect the concrete while it cures. We remove forms after a few days and inspect the finished foundation. Most foundation projects take 3 to 7 days, depending on size and complexity. We coordinate with your builder to keep your project on schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions