Foundations
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Protecting a Concrete Slab Through a Long Winter
Without a heated building above it, is a frost-protected shallow foundation at risk of damage from below-freezing temperatures?
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Insulation for a Conditioned Basement
Controlling moisture is the key to a healthy interior environment
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Calculating Loads for Helical Piers
Substituting piers for standard concrete footings raises questions for a reader planning a new deck
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Reusing an Old Foundation: Thrifty or Misguided?
Does it make sense to enlarge an existing foundation for a new house?
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Planning for a Permanent Wood Foundation
An owner-builder proposes a wood foundation but wonders whether he has all the details right
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All About Footings
Durable house designs start right here
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All About Helical Piles
A thriving industry offers concrete-free alternatives for additions, deck footings, and foundation repair
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The BS* + Beer Show: Permanent Wood Foundations (PWFs)
Though not a new assembly method, PWFs are a possible solution to a modern-day problem—the heavy use of concrete
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Insulating a Raised Slab
At least insulate the perimeter of the foundation — but it's safe to skip insulation under the slab in Climate Zone 3
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Foundations — Part 1
How your house meets the ground, and the many ways to improve your foundation details