A history of foundations

Foundations, unbeknown to many homeowners, are the first building blocks of a property. They are the most important aspect of a build that cement a building to the ground and that a build could not do without.

So, what is the history of the modest foundation?

Foundations of housing can be dated to thousands of years ago. Timber posts were dug into soil to bear the weight of a structure (post-in-ground construction). These structures were not anchored to the ground as well as they are today, and were only dug as far as a person could dig. Compare that to how it works today, and we can see how much this has changed. Nowadays, huge screws can be dug deep below the earth’s surface, making a foundation stronger than ever in order to carry larger load-bearing weights.

Foundations advanced alongside technology when stone began to be used to support the structure and weight of a home.

“Rubble trenches” consisted of layers of rock which were laid out within a ditch to support the weight of a structure. Rubble trenches were supported from the outer level of the structure and so were hollow inside. Water flow began to trouble these types of structures because it would sink the build further into its soil. This is when mortar was introduced to help seal the stone.

Rubble trenches are still used today and are thought of as a more environmentally friendly alternative to other foundations because they don’t require high quantities of cement to be manufactured.

Nowadays, foundations are dug much further in the ground, which further supports the strength and weight-bearing load of a build. Tall structures such as skyscrapers require sturdy foundations in order to support their weight. These builds often require screw piles to be dug hundreds of feet into the ground.

Although previous methods of piling were essential in the building blocks of today’s foundations, it is there is no doubt that new technologies have advanced enough to benefit the industry-providing solid and more secure foundations for structures than ever before.

Looking for a reliable piling company for your next building project?

Get in touch with BelowGround today.