DIY Builds
Photo by Laura Tancredi Pexels Logo Photo: Laura Tancredi

Which is cheaper concrete block or poured foundation?

Is a poured concrete foundation cheaper than a block wall foundation? Usually, the cost of construction varies from place to place. But as a matter of fact, poured walls cost about 20% less than the block foundation walls.

americandry.com - 5 Reasons Why Poured Concrete Walls Are Better
Do curtains stop condensation?
Do curtains stop condensation?

Curtains or internal blinds on windows can increase condensation on the glass by reducing the window surface temperature. This problem can be...

Read More »
Last updated Jul 23, 2019
Should sheds be anchored?
Should sheds be anchored?

Typically most wooden shed floors need and should have some sort of anchoring. If not, they stand a better chance of being moved by heavy winds or...

Read More »
Last updated Aug 31, 2022
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »
Promotion

Which foundation wall is better? Is it traditional cinder block walls or the poured concrete walls? Homeowners are partial towards one foundation type over the other. Yet, like everything else, each foundation type has its own set of pros and cons. In this article, we will discuss the differences between foundations made with cinder blocks or poured concrete walls. We will cover their advantages and disadvantages. So, without any further delay, let’s begin!

Block Foundation Walls vs. Poured Concrete Walls

Block foundations are in the majority of homes built before the 1970s. You can say it was a prevalent foundation type. Cinder blocks are capable of high compression strength. This means this foundation style can take a large amount of weight on its top. Cinder blocks are ready-made and available off the shelf from big box stores. The blocks are easy to store, and transport to a site. Poured concrete requires preparation before using, and concrete mixing trucks must travel a short distance to the construction site to keep costs down. A drawback found in a cinder block wall foundation is, they are more likely to suffer issues like buckling and bowing. Buckling and bowing are a result of either poor construction or underground lateral water pressure. Thus, repairing them can be quite expensive, depending on the extent of the damage. Here is another downside for block walls; they are more prone to water leaks because of the number of joints between each block. The cores inside the blocks can also fill with water, saturate the blocks, and create dampness inside basements. Unfortunately, cinder blocks will also require skilled labor to lay each block down, adding to the building cost. Remote locations, where travel is difficult, benefit the most from cinder block construction.

Poured Concrete Walls

Undoubtedly, poured concrete walls are a lot stronger than cinder block walls. They don’t have joints like the ones found between blocks. The only joint found in poured concrete basements is the cove joint. This is where the floor meets the wall, and the wall sits on top of the footing. Poured concrete walls have excellent resistance to underground lateral pressure imposed by the soil and water. It is the reason why engineers and architects are turning towards them in increasing numbers. A poured wall does not feature joints like in a cinder block wall, and it is less prone to leak years after construction. There will be resistance against premature leaking or cracks.

Can you put shed directly on gravel?
Can you put shed directly on gravel?

A well-made gravel foundation can support your shed directly or other foundation styles for your shed. To build a solid stable gravel shed...

Read More »
Last updated Dec 13, 2022
What is a good size for a wood workshop?
What is a good size for a wood workshop?

The amount of space you will need for your woodshop is about 125 square ft (11.6 square meters). But, if you are doing most of your woodworking by...

Read More »
Last updated Jun 13, 2019
Are shed plans easy to follow?
Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

Learn More »
Promotion

During the construction phase, poured walls can pour onto any foundation. If uncertainty abounds during construction, it is the preferred method for last-minute changes. Poured concrete walls are not restricted to the same limitations as cinder blocks. Concrete can pour into any shape and size. On the downside, poured cement walls can be more expensive than block walls when cement prep and production are far from the site. It is something to consider when building a home from scratch. Otherwise, poured cement is perfect for every type of foundation. When you build a new home, your main priority should be to create the strongest and safest foundation possible. Poured concrete walls have become the first choice of homeowners and builders. They are easy to construct and durable. They save you from issues like premature water leakage and frequent repairs. Keep reading below to learn about some other advantages of poured concrete walls.

5 Reasons Why You Should Opt for Poured Concrete Foundation Walls

They Offer High Strength

Poured concrete walls are hard to beat when it comes to their strength. They are super durable and offer a higher amount of flexural and compressive strength than block walls.

They Are More Resistant to Lateral Water Pressure

It is imperative to construct a strong structure that offers as much water resistance as possible. No matter how bad the climate gets. Poured concrete walls are free from joints and are much denser than the cinder block foundation walls. They will not give in as quickly to buckling or bowing.

They Are Fire Resistant

Poured concrete walls have the highest fire safety rating when compared to cinder blocks.

They Offer Design Flexibility

Poured concrete walls offer more design flexibility for builders. They can opt for a change at the last moment regardless of the foundation type. Builders start with a liquid form, build a mold into any shape and design. This is hard to achieve with cinder block walls.

They Are Low Maintenance

Poured concrete walls are lower maintenance. They have fewer joints, better at withstanding lateral pressure, and fire-resistant. It is possible to have no signs of cracks or water leaks in the first 5 to 10 years with exterior waterproofing.

What is the minimum pitch for a lean-to roof?
What is the minimum pitch for a lean-to roof?

The smallest pitch of a roof is 1/4:12, which translates to 1/4 inch rise to 12 inches of run. Sep 25, 2018

Read More »
Last updated May 29, 2021
Do you need rebar for a 10x10 concrete slab?
Do you need rebar for a 10x10 concrete slab?

Concrete slabs for most residential purposes don't require rebar grids smaller than 12”, so it isn't likely you'll use too much steel. Concrete...

Read More »
Last updated Aug 16, 2018
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »
Promotion

Waterproofing a Foundation: Existing Homes & New Construction

In new construction, waterproofing the exterior foundation walls consist of a primer, membrane, and sealant. Drainage channels are sometimes stretched out along the footer to a dry well. Backfill dirt is bulldozed into the space between the foundation walls and the ground. The soil fills the area surrounding the house and covers all the waterproofing. Both poured and block walls get the same treatment. Unfortunately, the exterior waterproofing doesn’t last long against the powers of nature. The average lifespan of new home waterproofing is 3 to 5 years. If they did a great job, it might last ten years. Exterior waterproofing does not last long. It is the reason why there are so many dedicated basement waterproofing companies available. It is not a permanent solution. Existing homes can install an interior waterproofing system to manage their water problem. Interior waterproofing consist of subsurface drain tile (pipes) pitched along with the depth of the footing. The drain tile is packed in stone, the cove joint covered with drainboard and vapor barrier. The drain tile is pitched to a sump basket with a sump pump to discharge water away from the house. The floor is finally replaced with 3.5 inches of a code-compliant concrete floor.

Many companies will offer exterior waterproofing on existing homes. It’s not only intrusive, but it’s also expensive and will not last long. If exterior waterproofing is so excellent, why do homeowners have basement water leaks?

Poured Concrete and Block Wall Foundation Costs

Is a poured concrete foundation cheaper than a block wall foundation?

Usually, the cost of construction varies from place to place. But as a matter of fact, poured walls cost about 20% less than the block foundation walls.

Related Articles:

americandry.com - 5 Reasons Why Poured Concrete Walls Are Better
Can I put a toilet in an outbuilding?
Can I put a toilet in an outbuilding?

YES! A toilet can be installed in a garden room, as it does not need to meet building regulations approval due to its separation and size. Building...

Read More »
Last updated Jan 15, 2021
What are the disadvantages of plywood?
What are the disadvantages of plywood?

Disadvantages & Limitation of Plywood Urea and phenol formaldehyde used for gluing causes cancer. Plywood is in many aspects weaker than wood. Not...

Read More »
Last updated Apr 23, 2022
Are shed plans easy to follow?
Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

Learn More »
Promotion
How much weight can a 4-inch slab hold?
How much weight can a 4-inch slab hold?

A 4-inch thick concrete can support upto 40 pounds of weight. Weight should not exceed 40 lbs/sq ft on an undetermined 4-inch slab. 80 lb/sq ft in...

Read More »
Last updated Jul 12, 2018
What's the difference between a barn and a shed?
What's the difference between a barn and a shed?

The Difference Between Barns and Sheds Barns are primarily used for housing farm animals like horses, sheep, pigs, and livestock. They are also...

Read More »
Last updated Sep 14, 2021