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Home Forums Module 5 What are the requirements for the foundation and site preparation for installing Module 5?

  • Styrofoam

    Administrator
    16/06/2025 at 13:53

    To set up Module 5, fortunately, field preparation is much simpler compared to classic construction. This not only reduces the overall project costs, but also significantly speeds up the construction process. It is crucial to ensure stability and longevity of the building, and this is achieved by properly selecting and implementing the foundation.

    Types of foundations for Module 5

    For Module 5, two types of foundations are most commonly used:

    1. Point foundation (columns/piles): This is often the preferred solution, especially on gently sloping terrain or where minimal disturbance to the existing terrain is required.
      • How it works: The weight of Module 5 is transferred to the ground by a series of individual concrete piles or smaller concrete blocks placed at strategic points. The number and arrangement of points depends on the size and weight of the module, as well as the bearing capacity of the soil.
      • Advantages:
        • Less excavation: Significantly less earthworks compared to a strip slab or solid slab.
        • Faster execution: It is installed faster, which shortens the overall construction time.
        • Terrain adaptability: Ideal for uneven terrain because the height of each pole can be individually adjusted.
        • Reduced environmental impact: It causes minimal disruption to the natural environment, which is especially important in sensitive natural areas.
        • Ventilation: It allows air to circulate under the building, preventing moisture buildup and extending the lifespan of the structure.
    2. Strip foundation (strip foundation): Although Module 5 is lighter than traditional structures, a strip foundation is still an option, especially on flat terrain with good soil bearing capacity.
      • How it works: It consists of continuous concrete strips placed under the load-bearing walls of Module 5. These strips distribute the weight of the building along the entire length of the load-bearing elements.
      • Advantages:
        • Good stability: It provides a solid and stable base for the object.
        • Relatively simple implementation: Compared to slab foundations, strip foundations are less complex to construct.
        • More affordable than a full plate: Although it requires more concrete than a point foundation, it is still more economical than a full slab foundation.

    Field preparation

    Regardless of the type of foundation chosen, ground preparation is key to long-term stability and security of your Module 5. It involves several steps:

    1. Geomechanical field testing: This is the most important first step. A geotechnical engineer will assess the composition of the soil, its bearing capacity, the presence of groundwater and other relevant geological characteristics. The results of these tests are crucial for selecting the most appropriate type and dimensions of the foundation.
    2. Field cleaning: It is necessary to remove all vegetation (trees, bushes, weeds), the surface layer of humus, stones and all other obstacles from the future location of the module.
    3. Leveling and excavation: The terrain needs to be leveled according to the project. For point foundations, point excavations are made for columns, while for strip foundations, trenches are dug. The depth of the excavation depends on the depth of soil freezing in your region and the recommendations of the geomechanical report.
    4. Drainage (if necessary): If geomechanical testing shows the presence of significant groundwater or poor soil permeability, it may be necessary to install a drainage system around the foundation to prevent water accumulation and possible damage.
    5. Substrate preparation: After excavation, the bottom of the excavation is usually covered with a layer of gravel or crushed stone, which is well compacted. This ensures a flat and stable base for concreting the foundation and improves drainage.
    6. Installation of formwork and reinforcing mesh: Before concreting, formwork (molds) for the foundation are installed, and reinforcing mesh or bars are placed inside them according to the static calculation. The reinforcement provides strength and resistance to tensile forces.
    7. Concreting: After checking all the previous steps, the foundation is concreting. It is important to use quality concrete of appropriate strength and ensure proper care of the concrete after pouring (preventing it from drying out too quickly).

    Advantages of this approach

    Precisely because of the possibility of applying simpler foundations, Module 5 offers significant advantages:

    • Cost reduction: Fewer excavations, less concrete and faster execution directly result in lower ground preparation costs.
    • Shorter construction time: Reducing the time required for the foundation contributes to the overall speed of project realization, which is particularly attractive for investors and end users.
    • Lower environmental impact: Minimal earthworks and reduced material usage make Module 5 a more environmentally friendly solution.

    It is important to emphasize: Although field preparation is simpler, Consultation with a qualified structural engineer and geotechnical engineer is essential.. They will define based on the specifics of your location and soil characteristics optimal type of foundation and all necessary details for safe and stable construction your Module 5.

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