Building Homes or Extensions/Foundation Slicing

Advertisement

Expert: - 6/4/2009


Question
I have a 200'x80' foundation witha metal building on the front 100'x80'.  I need to put a trench at the end of the building for drainage purposes, but this involves potentially cutting across the foundation.  Is it possible to cut the foundation as mentioned, then backfill with concrete and get the foundation strength back to as strong as it is now?

Answer
I would think it would be better to core bore through the footing to establish the drainage.  If this was a commercial footing I would expect 2 #5 bars in the top of the footing about 2" below the top of the concrete.  A footing's  primary function is to carry and spread a load path to the ground.  If it is cut and repaired it will have not lost much of its original function especially if the rebar has not been chopped out.

I'm still a bit lost about what you are attempting.

Building Homes or Extensions

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Dan Griffin

Expertise

I can answer almost all questions related to the total construction process. My expertise is in commercial construction, though I can field most any residential question. I have hands on experience in concrete, heavy equipment, masonry, all phases of carpentry, interior finishes, and I am fairly strong in mechanical and electrical.

Experience

I have over 20 years experience as a commercial carpenter and commercial construction superintendent. I have another 20 years experience in facility management for a major school district.

Organizations
My favorite hobby for he past 12 years has been singing bass in a The OkChorale men's barbershop chorus and the Mature Moments quartet.

Education/Credentials
I hold a Bachelor's degree in English and Math. I have completed many continuing education hours in the building trades. I hold a Master Carpenter card from the AGC, Associated General Contractors.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.