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Architecture/Foundation type?

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Expert: - 1/8/2009


Question

AdditionToBack
What type of foundation would be best?
I would like to do the home addition.
Here is the specs:
Currently I have a deck 12' X 44'. The deck is about 9' above the ground. The floor is 4" thick concrete with 12' X X 44', it is the same size as the deck.
I would like to tear down the deck and add a new area of 22' X 44'. This will be 10' extended out to the back of the house. The left side of the new area will be 22' X 28' master bedroom suite with WIC & Bathroom. the remaining 22' X 16' will be deck. I would like to leave the ground as it is. But not sure which foundation would be the best. The addition area is a flat land.

Contractor suggests 2 type of foudnations.

1. Footing with rebar and 4" concrete slap.
or
2. 6' X 6' post(column) with 18" X 18" footing and about 3' deep into the ground.

2nd option seems to save money but create lot of poles and doesn't look as nice.

What is your opinion on this? Will the 6' X 6' posts sufficient enough to hold the weigh of new addition?
BTW, the property is in Duluth, GA.

Thank you in advance for any opinion.

Answer
The 6x6 option will be less expensive but for aesthetics, I would put in 12 inch diameter round columns, perhaps poured into a cardboard form with rebar in the center on 20 x 20 footings.  This would go with the contemporary look of the house.
Another option would be to use 16" columns made from concrete block with rebar.  This would make the new addtion look more substantial and you could take in the ground floor later for more living space or screen that area.  The square columns would be easier to frame into.
If you use siding on the future phase below then the 6x6's would be hidden as well.
You will have to verify spacing of any columns with a structural engineer and also may have to get a new soils test to confirm bearing capacity.  The posts may have to be tied together with grade beams.

John Henry Architect

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