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Building Homes or Extensions/Full basement in Texas "black gumbo"

Expert: Dave Johnson - 3/19/2009

Question
I am planning to build in North Central TX "black gumbo" soil and would like to have a full basement foundation. Would you recommend ICF and a lite deck over traditional poured concrete? And are there any things I need to do for soil stabilization prior to installation? Thank you!

Answer
Hi Nan,
I am not familiar with that term (black gumbo), but I'm sure that its just like it sounds.
If there is a bottom to this stuff, I would go with a minimum of 25"x8" footer, and then you could use icf's with 1 course of re-bar every course of blocks and vertical bar at 24" to 36" centers.
Sound too, like you need to be sure of good drainage.

I strongly recommend "NUDURA"

Good luck,

Dave

Questioner's Rating

Rating(1-10)	Knowledgeability = 10	Clarity of Response = 10	Politeness = 10
Comment	Thanks, Dave! This is very helpful and I am checking out NUDURA brand. Looks like the best ICF out there.