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What is a good foundation for stackable concrete blocks?

What is a good foundation for stackable concrete blocks blocks?

Is the foundation suitable for a construction of stackable concrete blocks? Laying a foundation is not always necessary. On a flat and load bearing surface you can build right away. But what if the foundation is not flat or unstable? In some cases an extra foundation is needed. In this blog we explain what you need to think about.

How do I know if the foundation is suitable?

To know if the subsurface is suitable for a concrete structure, for example an industrial warehouse, storage box or salt storage, you need to have a foundation study carried out. A foundation investigation, also called a ‘probing investigation’, measures the bearing capacity of the soil. Based on the probing study the engineer determines whether a foundation is necessary and if so, what type of foundation is needed.

Soil susceptibility to settlement

A factor in determining the bearing capacity of the subsoil is its susceptibility to settlement. With a high bearing capacity the soil is less sensitive to settlement; the degree of subsidence below ground level. The soil can move somewhat when loaded with a building structure. In the probing study, the settlement sensitivity is also measured. In a slightly settlement-sensitive ground, the soil moves minimally, but there is a risk of cracking in a building structure. For this, building with stackable concrete blocks is the perfect solution, because the blocks can move independently of each other, preventing cracking.

What is the bearing capacity of the concrete blocks construction?

After the probing research and building the foundation, if necessary, it is known how much weight the subsoil can bear. In addition to the type of foundation, external factors determine the bearing capacity of the concrete structure. Here the bulk load on the wall is particularly important. The weight of the bulk pressing against the wall and the filling height have an effect on the stability of the block wall.

In addition, the load due to the use of heavy equipment around the wall affects the bearing capacity of the wall. Depending on the degree of loading, additional reinforcements may be required. Finally, weather conditions such as snow and wind can have a (minor) effect on the stability.

All these factors are taken into account by a structural engineering company in a static calculation. Based on the static calculation, the construction drawings for the structure are made.

Smooth surface

Another factor that must be taken into account is that the subsurface may be slippery after the construction of a concrete foundation. There is then a risk of displacement of the stackable concrete blocks. This occurs particularly with a smooth floor in combination with piers. With more ‘standard’ walls this is not easily the case.

Various solutions are conceivable to eliminate the risk of shifting. For example, by placing rubber mats between the foundation and the structure. Another option is to use sliding anchors that are drilled into the foundation. These issues are also included in a static calculation.

Need advice?

At Legioblock, we work with recognized parties who are familiar with building with stackable concrete blocks. We can call on them to provide probing advice and, if necessary, to lay a foundation. For your convenience, we remain the contact point throughout the project. This way we can offer you a total solution for your construction project.
Please contact us for more information and a free consultation.