Are You Making One of these Foundation Code Violations?

Code violations are one fast way to getting your job site shut down and your company fined. If you make any type of code violation, especially if it has to do with the foundation of your building, it can compromise the integrity of the build and lead to dangerous issues later on.

While most of these violations are found by inspectors long before that point, you’re still creating a hazardous situation when any of them are made. Even if you use Symons forms and other types of material or building methods to improve safety, code violations are still serious.

Here are some of the most common foundation code violations that you need to avoid.

What Causes Code Violations?

Before you can make an effort to prevent foundation code violations, it may help to understand what causes them. Most violations are not done intentionally, nor is there usually any malicious intent behind them.

Instead, most are simply accidents or are due to a lack of education. Someone may fail to correctly follow instructions, or a contractor you’ve hired may not be aware of the codes and regulations that must be followed.

Taking shortcuts and attempting to cut costs can also result in code violations. This includes using cheap or sub-standard materials when building the foundation or skipping over the steps necessary to create a solid foundation.

If you have multiple contractors working in the space at the same time, it’s also possible that things will get done out of order or that a contractor will assume someone else handled certain tasks when no one actually did. These types of oversights and accidents are exactly why inspectors check the foundation and other parts of a new build for code violations.

Drainage Violations

Before you can begin pouring a foundation, you have to make certain that the site is prepared correctly. This involves checking the soil to ensure it won’t erode and measuring the grade of the foundation. If you fail to use correct erosion control or check for the correct soil conditions, it can create a weak foundation.

Other code violations may have to do with the grade of the slope around the new build. Inspect that the ground is graded correctly, so that water won’t pool inward towards the foundation.

If the grade is too high or too low, water may not run away from the foundation correctly. This can lead to water seeping into the building. Failing to slope sidewalks and driveways correctly and failing to install downspouts and other types of drainage control can also result in foundation violations.

Foundation Violations

In addition to drainage issues, there are a number of other violations related to foundation construction. Failing to use proper rebar support, leaving standing water or mud in the footings, and failing to set footings at the correct depth can all lead to fines. Using the wrong anchor bolts is another code violation to avoid.

You also need to make certain you have built your foundation to the correct size and have installed all necessary drains. Any fasteners used need to be the correct size and type as well. You also need to make certain that you’ve installed all of the necessary vapor barriers to protect the foundation and the building itself from moisture.

We’re Here to Help

Building a foundation that is up to code requires starting off with the right equipment. Forming America has the necessary concrete forming and shoring equipment you need to pour a solid foundation that is up to code. Contact us today to learn more about renting or purchasing this equipment.