Now that you have your budget, placement and size for your building, it’s time to prepare for the foundation. Here are a few steps for you to consider…

What is a Foundation?

A foundation for a garage or horse barn is very important and should be set in place with the utmost care. The foundation holds the structure in place and becomes the “root” of your building. A well designed and built foundation will ensure the lifespan of the building for many generations to come.

 Different Types of Foundations

 Concrete Frost Wall Foundation:  This is the most common type of foundation for a custom garage. Prior to pouring the foundation, the site needs to be cleared and footing trenches are dug below grade in according to code. This type of foundation is built using a continuous footing that is set below frost level. A continuous concrete wall is then built on top of the footing that will typically be exposed above finished ground level about 12” for water protection. A finished concrete slab is then poured on compacted gravel for a smooth finish inside the garage. Local code will dictate thickness of the slab, thickness of the footing, width of the footing, sizing of the wire mesh, thickness of the layer of gravel or sand.

 Beyond the Concrete:  Knowing how the space will be used prior to breaking ground is essential. Most garages rest on slabs, but any drainage system for a mechanic's workshop or other unique use will require more extensive excavation.

 Pressure Treated Posted Foundation:  A pressure treated posted foundation is a pier foundation system that is a very common alternative

to a concrete frost wall foundation throughout New England. This is especially common for agricultural use and horse barns. A posted foundation is built using 6x6 pressure treated posts that are set every 8’ on center around the perimeter of the building.  The pressure treated posts all get cut off flush near ground level and a pressure treated sill beam is place on top of the posts. The wall framing for the building is then built up from that. The advantage to this type of foundation system is it is less expensive than a concrete frost wall foundation.

This is because you are eliminating the concrete costs and also much of the excavation costs. Also, keep in mind a flat and level site is necessary to begin this type of foundation system.

 How much will the Foundation Cost?

Of course every site is different and the ground conditions and site work requirements will not be the same. The individual site must really be looked at first in order to give recommendations on what type of foundation would be best and the exact cost to complete the job.

 Call The Barn Yard & Great Country Garages Today!

 Remember – The Barn Yard & Great Country Garages offers extensive services to eliminate the need to hire various outside contractors. We are your one-stop-shop for design, site work, excavation and concrete foundation services. You can be confident that many have utilized The Barn Yard & Great Country Garage’s exceptional foundation services and have allowed us to handle the complete job from the initial consultation to the finishing touches of a fine crafted building.

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In the meantime, feel free to contact us today for a complimentary consultation or visit one of their 3 convenient Connecticut locations in Ellington, Windsor Locks and Brookfield. 

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