When building a new structure, the foundation is one of the most important elements to consider. The type of foundation you choose will have a major impact on the stability and longevity of your building. Concrete foundations come in a variety of types, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Many people who haven't built a new home or business before simply do not know that there are different types of concrete foundations, but that is easy to change. Here are three different types of concrete foundations so you can begin to choose which one is right for you. 

Slab-On-Grade

Slab-on-grade foundations are one of the most common types of concrete foundations. They are typically used for buildings with a crawl space or no basement. They are made by pouring a concrete slab directly onto the ground and are ideal for buildings with relatively flat and stable soil. The advantages of slab-on-grade foundations include cost-effectiveness, ease of installation, and reduced maintenance costs. If you just want a basic, concrete foundation that is still very strong, then it is hard to go past a slab-on-grade option, and many people use it in geographically suitable locations that do not have extreme variations in temperature. 

Floating Foundation

The term floating is a bit misleading when it comes to this type of foundation. Floating foundations are used when the soil is not able to support the load of the structure. They are made by excavating the soil and replacing it with building materials that weigh the same amount as the soil that was removed. The structure is then built on top of this floating foundation. The advantages of floating foundations include providing stability in areas with poor soil conditions and reducing the impact on sensitive ecological areas. A concrete foundation contractor can help illuminate whether this is a necessary choice for your home or business.

Pile Foundations

Pile foundations are used when the soil conditions are poor, such as when the soil is wet or is composed of unstable material. They are made of long cylindrical or rectangular concrete members that are driven deep into the ground. The advantages of pile foundations include stability and flexibility when the soil is poor or the structure is expected to be loaded heavily. These are very common and are able to be repaired individually when one pile might fail or become damaged, ensuring the house survives well into the future, even on soil that might not be the most suitable for construction. 

Speak to a concrete foundation contractor to learn more.