While the foundation is one of the essential parts of construction, the footing is also critical, providing structural integrity that numerous houses often lack. Concrete footings will especially come in handy for homes built on troublesome soil, allowing you to prevent settling that could prove disastrous in the long run. Below, we dive into other reasons why footers are essential and their role in supporting your building.
Why Are Footers Important?
Prevents Moisture Retention
Moisture retention can cause structural damage to your home and lead to the growth of mold that could be toxic when inhaled. If left unattended, water in the soil will often expand, resulting in increased pressure on your home’s foundation. This could expose your home to cracks that cause water pools in the lower structures of your home, such as your basement.
In addition to this, cracks could also expose you to pest infestation, resulting in increased damage to your home. Introducing a footing to your foundation will allow you to prevent these issues, providing good drainage to keep your foundation dry even in the rainy seasons.
Provides Insulation
Due to the varying changes in seasons, extreme weather conditions could significantly impact insulation properties in your home, increasing your utility bills even further. Concrete footings offer insulating properties, allowing you to stay warm in the winter and cool during the hotter months of the year. With this, you are assured of reduced household expenses, helping you save money for other uses.
Resist Earth Movements
The earth’s tectonic plates will experience occasional movements, affecting the stability of your foundation. Water tables also fluctuate along with the temperatures in your surroundings, affecting soil conditions beneath your home. If your foundation is weak, these forces could affect the structural integrity of your home, causing damage to your building. Footers prevent any movement brought about by these movements, eliminating any cracks and destruction that could impact your home.
Prevents Pest Infestation
If you need a solution to keep insects and pests out of your home, footings will be your go-to. Concrete footings separate your foundation from insects such as termites that could damage your wood framing. Pests and burrowing animals that thrive in the soil will also be kept clear from your home, limiting any need for foundation maintenance.
Should I Hire a Professional To Pour My Footer?
Concrete foundation contractors are experts at pouring footers, allowing you to enjoy the above-listed benefits. If you want to insulate your home, foundation specialists will help you settle for the right footing, as insulation placement varies significantly for each climatic region. Understanding the various footing design rules will also not be easy for numerous homeowners, so the services of a foundation company come in handy for this.
If you suspect that your home will likely run into a soft zone or are unsure about the soil strength in your area, getting a concrete foundation expert will also be ideal, allowing you to prevent foundation problems.
Whether you need to keep your home free from pests or need to keep it safe from moisture damage, consider reaching out to Bri-Mic Construction, Inc. today. We specialize in concrete footings, providing guaranteed longevity for your home.