#CONCRETE BLOCK FOUNDATION DESIGN CODE#

In light-frame homes, a lower load combination typically governs foundation wall design. Regardless of the type of concrete foundation wall selected, the designer needs to determine the nominal and factored loads that, in turn, govern the type of wall (reinforced or unreinforced) that may be appropriate for a given application. The following sections detail design methods for both wall types. The designer may elect to design the wall as either a reinforced or a plain concrete wall. Sometimes, a specific design applied with reasonable engineering judgment results in a more efficient and economical solution than that prescribed by the codes.

#CONCRETE BLOCK FOUNDATION DESIGN CODE#

In most cases, a design for concrete or concrete masonry walls can be selected from the prescriptive tables in the applicable residential building code or the International One- and Two-Family Dwelling Code. This section discusses the issue of reinforcement and presents rational design approach for residential concrete and masonry foundation walls. The nominal reinforcement approach has provided many serviceable structures. However, residential foundation walls are generally constructed of unreinforced or nominally reinforced concrete or masonry or of preservative-treated wood. Engineering specifications generally require reinforcement of concrete or masonry foundation walls because of somewhat arbitrary limits on minimum steel-to-concrete ratios, even for “plain” concrete walls. In some cases, masonry or concrete foundation walls incorporate a nominal amount of steel reinforcement to control cracking. To isolate non-moisture-resistant building materials from the ground. To provide a moisture-resistant barrier to below-ground habitable space in accordance with the building code and

To provide anchorage for the above-grade structure to resist wind or seismic forces

To provide adequate resistance to shear and bending stresses resulting from lateral soil pressure To provide adequate strength, in combination with the footing (when required) to prevent differential settlement To transfer the load of the building to the footing or directly to the earth The objectives of foundation wall design are:

Concrete block foundation design