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The last things a customer wants in a basement are musty smells, damp carpets, damaged finishes, and/or standing water. Moisture in the basement can cause permanent damage to both the home and the builder's reputation. As if battling the seemingly ever-present moisture problem isn't bad enough for builders, those who build in areas with expansive soil face even greater challenges—in terms of both moisture damage and structural stability.
If you haven't heard of expansive soil, it's not surprising. Expansive soil is a problem only in certain regions. Expansive soil refers to any type of soil that expands and contracts based on its moisture content. When the soil gets wet, it expands, and as it dries, it contracts. Over time, this expansion and contraction leads to cracks in the foundation through which water can enter. And because the foundation is in direct contact with the soil, there's no opportunity for the concrete to dry once it gets wet. Expansive soils are present in the Rocky Mountain area, Texas, southern California, the Great Lakes area, and the Gulf States.
One great solution in regions with expansive soil is to install the GeoVoid system, which creates a space for the soil to expand. In essence, the GeoVoid system gives the soil breathing room so that it doesn't exert pressure on the foundation, which can lead to cracks and water intrusion.
Here are some key elements of installing the GeoVoid system:
- Lay down a rock surface over the soil. This rock will provide a capillary break to stop water from entering the foundation.
- Place the Styrofoam-based GeoVoid material over the rock surface.
- Lay down foam sheeting over top of the GeoVoid material. Install rebar for reinforcement, and pour the concrete over the sheeting to complete the system.
The GeoVoid system creates a 6-inch space under the floor. The 6-inch space is a buffer zone that protects the foundation when the soil expands and contracts as its moisture content changes. It also provides insulation, which helps to keep the foundation dry.
When the soil swells, there may be some contact between the soil and foundation, but by installing proper above-grade drainage and French drains, this swelling should be minimal. Check the engineering reports or talk to your geotechnical engineer regarding the amount of potential swell in the soil, and install a void form that exceeds the swell potential to ensure that the ground never touches the bottom of the wall.
In areas with expansive soil, the GeoVoid system is a great solution for ensuring the structural integrity and dryness of foundations. And if your customers are concerned about expansive soil, direct them to some tips from the National Inspection Service's website.
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