Concrete Foundations & Footings

Why Proper Foundations Matter

Your foundation is literally what everything else rests on. Whether you're building a home addition, detached garage, shed, retaining wall, or any other structure, the foundation determines how well that structure performs over its lifetime. A properly designed and installed foundation distributes weight evenly, resists soil movement, and prevents the settling that causes cracks and structural damage.

In Redlands, soil conditions vary significantly across different neighborhoods. Some areas have expansive clay soils that swell when wet and shrink when dry, putting tremendous stress on foundations. Other areas have rocky or sandy soils with different bearing capacities. Understanding these local conditions and building foundations accordingly is essential for long-term structural integrity. That's why working with experienced concrete contractors who know the area makes such a difference.

Types of Concrete Foundations We Install

Different projects require different foundation types. We install several foundation styles depending on your structure's size, weight, and purpose.

• •Slab-on-grade foundations: A single concrete pour that serves as both foundation and floor, ideal for garages and workshops
• •Stem wall foundations: Concrete footings below ground with walls that extend above grade, perfect for raised structures
• •Pier and beam foundations: Individual concrete piers that support beams, useful for sloped lots or difficult terrain
• •Grade beam foundations: Reinforced concrete beams connecting piers or footings, providing extra strength
• •Isolated footings: Individual concrete pads under posts or columns, commonly used for decks and pergolas

Each foundation type has specific advantages. We'll recommend the best option based on your project requirements, soil conditions, and building codes. OneCall Redlands Concrete works closely with structural engineers when needed to ensure every foundation meets or exceeds load requirements.

The Foundation Installation Process

Installing a foundation requires precision and adherence to engineering specifications. The process begins with careful site layout using exact measurements from approved plans. We mark footing locations, verify property lines, and check for underground utilities before excavation begins.

Excavation depth depends on soil conditions and frost depth requirements. In Redlands, frost isn't typically a concern, but we must dig deep enough to reach stable, undisturbed soil. For expansive soils, this sometimes means going deeper and backfilling with engineered fill material. We then build forms to exact dimensions, install required reinforcing steel according to engineering drawings, and carefully pour and vibrate the concrete to eliminate air pockets.

Proper curing is essential for foundations. Concrete gains strength gradually over 28 days, and we protect fresh concrete during this period to prevent rapid moisture loss. If you're planning to build a structure that requires foundation work alongside other concrete projects like concrete slabs or retaining walls, we can coordinate all the concrete work efficiently.

Permits, Inspections, and Code Compliance

Foundation work almost always requires building permits and inspections in Redlands. This isn't red tape. It's protection for you. Inspections ensure foundations are built correctly and safely. The inspection process typically includes a footing inspection before concrete is poured and a final foundation inspection before framing begins.

We handle the permit process and coordinate all required inspections. Our work consistently passes inspection because we follow code requirements and maintain detailed documentation. If engineering calculations are required for your project, we work with qualified structural engineers who understand local building codes and soil conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Foundations