Winton Homes specialize in constructing exceptional prefab homes for Western Canadian homebuyers, but we don't build the foundation. That being said, with over 40 years in the business, we know a thing or two about foundations. Anchoring your new home is an integral part of the process and one you'll want to think about prior to the arrival of your home package shipment.
The contractor you hire for foundation work should be able to help you select the best solution while keeping in mind these key factors:
- Land conditions.
- Weather considerations.
- The slope of the lot.
- Proximity to water.
- Your community's building codes.
Whether you're buying a cabin for the lake or a new home in the city, there's no one-size-fits-all solution for every customer in every province. Here are some basics of foundations.
The Most Popular - Slab Foundation
A slab foundation is poured concrete that sits on a bed of gravel, sand, or crushed stone for drainage. It may include steel rebar, vapour barrier, and additional insulation materials. Concrete slabs are strong and designed to protect your property against invasive pests and moisture. They are the most cost effective and popular choice for prefabricated homeowners.
However, before booking the most affordable option, you should know a couple of things.
By using a traditional slab foundation, your home will sit lower to the ground. Some people don't find this as visually appealing. Something else to consider, without a basement, any heating systems you wish to install will need to be located somewhere else within your new home, usually on the main floor.
Whether you opt for a raised slab foundation or something else, a good foundation contractor or engineer will lay out your best options.
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Basement Foundations
Adding a basement to your Winton prefab home is nice and serves its purpose, and it's also the most expensive option.
Having poured concrete walls (or concrete blocks) below grade level will gain you the usable square footage for additional storage, extra rooms, or even that mortgage helper suite. Once the interior is complete, a basement adds tremendous resale value to your investment.
As with every foundation, you'll have different options; in this case, you can opt for full basements, partial basements, or the visually appealing walk-out basement.
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Crawl Spaces
Crawl spaces are a good foundation option for colder climates. A crawl space is like having a cost-efficient basement that you don't have to finish. You get the insulation advantages of a basement without the extra labour and material costs.
- When properly insulated and sealed with a vapour barrier, you can use the extra space for storage.
- Your main floor will be warmer and more comfortable with that extra space between your property and the ground.
- The utility connections for your new home are more easily accessible (when compared to a slab foundation).
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Helical Screw Piles
If soil is soft or unstable, a concrete slab is bound to be problematic. A screw pile foundation relies on embedding long steel shafts with helical flights deep into the ground to secure your home.
Although pricing can vary, helical screw piles are generally easier to install than concrete slabs as they don't require excavation. They are an environmentally friendly option with minimal soil displacement.
- They can be installed in all types of weather.
- They reduce the need for extensive excavation work and soil removal.
- They minimize disruption for neighbouring structures.
- They can be built upon right away without having to wait for curing.
Concrete piles offer a similar system and may be suitable for our friends living in rocky areas. Pardon the pun, but a good contractor can fill you in on all the details.
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Final Thoughts
Every property is unique, and the foundation of your new home deserves some serious consideration. As a new homebuyer, you ultimately want to consider what will make your property the best investment it can be while working with your lifestyle and budget.
With today's advanced building technologies, and a reputable contractor handling the work, any foundation you select should serve your needs adequately. View our Inspiration section to view completed projects built by clients just like you.
Basement or no basement, Winton Homes has a fantastic selection of in-house designs, and we're happy to work with third-party plans and any contractor or engineer you hire. We'll make sure you are getting the right home for your lot.
Drop us a line and let's discuss your plan in more detail.
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