Concrete Foundations & Footings
The foundation of your project starts with solid concrete work you can trust.
Why Foundations and Footings Matter
Your foundation holds up everything. Whether it's a house, garage, shed, or addition, the structure is only as strong as the concrete underneath. A poorly poured foundation cracks, shifts, and causes problems that cost thousands to fix. We pour foundations and footings that meet code, handle load requirements, and last the life of your building.
In Champaign, IL, we deal with clay soil, freeze-thaw cycles, and moisture issues that challenge foundations. We know how to excavate, reinforce, and pour concrete that handles these local conditions.
Types of Foundations We Build
Different projects need different foundation types. Here's what we specialize in:
- Slab-on-grade foundations: A concrete slab poured directly on a prepared base, common for garages, sheds, and some homes.
- Crawl space foundations: Short foundation walls with footings that support the structure above a crawl space.
- Full basement foundations: Tall foundation walls that create a full basement, including footings and floor slabs.
- Footings for additions: Concrete footings that extend existing foundations for room additions or structural changes.
- Pier and post footings: Individual concrete footings for decks, pergolas, and other load-bearing structures.
The Foundation Pouring Process
Building a foundation takes precision and planning. Here's what goes into it:
First, we excavate to the depth required by code and soil conditions. In Illinois, footings must go below the frost line to prevent frost heave. Next, we build forms and install rebar for reinforcement. The rebar grid gives the concrete strength to handle the weight of your structure.
When we pour, we use concrete mixed for foundation work with the right strength and additives for our climate. We make sure the concrete is level, properly vibrated to remove air pockets, and cured correctly to reach full strength. This attention to detail prevents cracks and structural problems later.
Why Frost Depth Matters in Illinois
In Champaign, the frost line is about 42 inches deep. When water freezes in the soil, it expands and can lift shallow footings. That's why we dig below the frost line for all footings and foundation work. This keeps your structure stable through winter freeze-thaw cycles.
Working with Other Contractors
Foundation work often involves coordination with builders, framers, and other trades. We work closely with your team to ensure the foundation is poured on schedule and meets all specifications. If you're building a new structure, adding on, or replacing a foundation, we handle the concrete work professionally and on time.