Building construction technology

TASK 02 – 2.1

Describe different types of foundations . Justify the selection of

foundation of your visited site

2.1.2 Introduction

When a structure is considered, they have 2 parts. One is sub- structure and other one is super
structure. The sub- structure transmits the load of super structure to the underlying soil and is
termed as Foundation.

All foundations consist of 3 essential parts. They are foundation bed, footing and foundation
wall.

Purpose of the foundation:

The foundation is provided for these main reasons.

To distribute the load of the structure, on large area.

To distribute the load on underlying soil evenly and prevent unequal settlement.
To provide a level & hard surface for building operation
To prevent the lateral movement

2.1.3 Types of foundation

Strip footing
foundation
Spread
footing Pad footing
foundation foundation
Shallow
foundations Mat or Raft Combined
foundation footing
Foundations foundation
Pile
foundations
Deep
foundations
Caisson
foundations

BETC HND in quantity surveying Page 1

Building construction technology

Table 09 - types of foundations

Foundations are mainly divided into two categories considering their depths.

1. Shallow foundations
2. Deep foundations
Top soil should be removed before starting foundation work.

2.1.4 Shallow foundations

When the foundation is placed beneath the lowest part of the super structure then it is called
as shallow foundation. Foundation depth will be less than 3m and the object of this type of
foundation is to distribute the structural loads over a wide horizontal area at shallow depths
below the ground level.

This type of foundation is divided in to 2 categories according to their footings.

1. Spread Footing Foundation

2. Mat or Raft Foundation

BETC HND in quantity surveying Page 2