Foundation Wall
Part of the building foundation which forms the permanent retaining wall of the structure below grade
A foundation wall is a structural element of a building’s foundation that supports the weight of the structure and transfers it to the ground. It is typically made of reinforced concrete or masonry and is designed to resist both lateral forces (such as wind or earthquake) and vertical forces (such as the weight of the building).
The size and thickness of the foundation wall will depend on the load-bearing capacity of the soil, the type of structure being built, and the building code requirements in the area. In general, thicker and stronger foundation walls will be required for taller and heavier buildings, while smaller and lighter structures may need just a minimal foundation wall.
Foundation walls are often used in below-grade (basement) construction to provide support and prevent soil erosion. The wall can be designed to extend above the ground level, serving as both a foundation and a retaining wall for the adjacent soil. It can also have a watertight design to prevent water from seeping into the basement.
In summary, a foundation wall is a crucial component of a building’s foundation that helps to ensure the structure is stable and safe.
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