Which foundation to choose for your log cabin
There is no doubt that a foundation is one of the most important factors to consider when it comes to building a log cabin. It needs to be done correctly from the very beginning since there is no way to correct it after the walls and the roof of the cabin have been erected. Therefore, it is very important to study different types of foundations before you go ahead with yours.
You need to remember that the type of foundation you choose will depend on the properties of the ground and soil you have, as well as the size and weight of your cabin. Here are some of the most common types of foundations you can choose from:
Basement foundation: This is one of the most appropriate type of foundations for installing certain machines (a well pump, HVAC, etc.), although it is the most expensive. It is similar to a slab foundation combined with a crawl space foundation. It is often a practical space to use when building a house. However, if you intend to use it as a living space you need to ensure it is waterproof. Such type of foundation is not a very popular choice for a log cabin (more information about log cabins).
Perimeter foundation: This type of foundation is very popular in the UK. It basically consists of the external wall with a step down inside, on which the floor bearers usually sit. This type of foundation is usually solum type, which allows the air to circulate underneath the floor bearers and eliminates the risk of moisture getting into the wood. To achieve this, air bricks are incorporated in the external wall below the joist level. A sheet of polythene/tarpaulin laid underneath the building will prevent grass from growing.
Strip foundations: This is a type of concrete foundation built very deep to combat any soil heave and frost issues. A row of bricks or blocks is built above the ground level.
Raft foundations: This type of foundation is a full size concrete base which might be a perfect solution for areas with strong tree roots. It is more expensive since you need to lay concrete, however, it creates a very strong and reliable base.
Crawl space: This type of foundation is best for different soil types – it also gives space for plumbing, wiring and other utilities.
Slab foundation: This is a kind of concrete base which is laid on frost walls or piling to prevent the base from cracking which might occur due to temperature fluctuation. A slab foundation is usually a perimeter footing and concrete stem wall. A 4'' slab concrete is put on top of the footings.
Concrete pad foundations: One of the most popular foundation types for log cabins. Basically, it is a concrete base which is not very deep.
Piers: These are the structures which come out of the ground and support the cabin at certain points. Such system ensures that the weight is distributed evenly and the piers are placed in strategically important places.
Concrete slab foundation: Another great alternative for a log cabin foundation. It minimizes the risk of termites and water ingress by providing a strong and reliable base at the same time.
Screw foundation: This is a kind of pier foundation with rods which are screwed into the ground with a machine.
I like that piers are put at strategically important places because that way you know that they're going to do their job. If they're put in specific places, that means each pier has an important job that it's doing and they're all working together to support the cabin properly. I'm definitely going to think about getting this kind of foundation for my cabin.
That's a cool idea to use a machine to screw rods into the ground. I feel like that would be an easy option for a lighter weight building. I should make sure I ask about screw foundations if I have a little cabin built up in the mountains this summer.