Concrete Foundations & Footings

The Importance of Solid Foundations

Your foundation is literally what everything else builds upon. Whether you are constructing a new home, adding a room, or building a garage or barn, the foundation determines how well that structure will perform over its lifetime. A properly designed and installed foundation prevents settling, cracking, and structural problems.

We have poured foundations and footings throughout the Decatur, IL area for residential and commercial projects. Our team understands local soil conditions, frost depth requirements, and building codes. This knowledge ensures your foundation will support your structure safely and reliably for decades.

Types of Foundations We Build

Different structures need different foundation systems. We work with you and your builder to create the right foundation for your project. Each type has specific advantages depending on soil conditions, building design, and intended use.

Our foundation services include:

• Poured concrete basement walls and floors
• Crawl space foundations with block or poured walls
• Slab-on-grade foundations for homes and buildings
• Strip footings for load-bearing walls
• Pier and pad footings for posts and columns
• Grade beam systems for challenging soil conditions

Engineering and Site Preparation

Every foundation project starts with careful planning. We review engineering plans and conduct site assessments to understand soil bearing capacity and drainage patterns. Proper excavation to the correct depth is critical, especially in areas where frost can penetrate deep into the ground.

Footings must sit below the frost line to prevent heaving during freeze-thaw cycles. In Central Illinois, this typically means digging at least 42 inches deep. We also ensure adequate drainage away from the foundation to prevent water accumulation and potential damage. These steps protect your investment and prevent costly repairs later.

Quality Materials and Reinforcement

Foundation concrete must be strong and durable. We use high-strength concrete mixes and proper reinforcement with rebar or wire mesh as specified by engineering plans. This reinforcement helps the concrete resist cracking from ground movement and structural loads.

For basement walls, we install proper waterproofing and drainage systems. This includes coating exterior walls, installing drain tile, and ensuring proper backfill compaction. Basement floor slabs get vapor barriers to control moisture. Every detail matters when building foundations that will last.

Working with Builders and Contractors

We coordinate closely with general contractors, framers, and other trades to keep your project on schedule. Our team shows up when promised, works efficiently, and communicates clearly about timelines. We understand that foundation work is just one part of a larger construction project.

For homeowners managing their own projects, we provide guidance through the entire process. From understanding permit requirements to scheduling inspections, we make sure nothing gets overlooked. You can trust us to build a foundation that meets all code requirements and supports your structure properly.

Common Questions About Foundations