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Foundations (A10): Standard Foundations

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In our region, foundations may be constructed from a variety of materials and systems, including concrete (block, insulated forms, or poured), or wood. Concrete, the most common material, has a significant impact on the environment, primarily because it is an extracted product, relying heavily on non-renewable, although plentiful, resources and a production process that creates significant amounts of CO2. Following are some basic recommendations (list from SDRG) which will minimize the impacts of concrete use.
  • Specify aggregates and concrete products from local manufacturers, so the energy spent in transporting the material is minimized. Use recycled aggregates. Ask about the manufacturers' pollution control provisions.
  • Consider using concrete as the finished surface, by specially forming, coloring, or etching the face. This allows concrete to be used efficiently as both a structural and architectural element.
  • Work with a structural engineer to reduce the amount of cement in the mixture by using pozzolans (fly ash, blast furnace slag), while still maintaining the appropriate strength and structural characteristics.
  • Consider using stay-in-place insulating formwork in foundation walls. Use of these forms can reduce the amount of concrete needed and provides insulation value as well.