Difference Between Concrete and Wood Foundations
By Marc Gordon - September 8, 2022

Concrete and wood are the two foundation materials most commonly used. Foundations are integral to the durability of the home’s structure. However, multiple factors have to be considered, such as climate, affordability, and whether or not a basement would be included. These factors differ with each material.

Table Summary

Concrete FoundationWood Foundation
Relatively durable, can withstand heat damageLikely to be attacked by termites
Takes longer to installEasy to install
Does not require maintenanceOccasionally requires reinforcement
Difficult to modify or restructureEasily modified and accessible for repairs and restructuring
Vulnerable to moisture and crackingTreated wood does not absorb moisture

Definitions

Concrete Foundation is a foundation that involves using concrete, usually with another material. A structure’s base is a concrete foundation. Examples of concrete foundations are, Concrete slabs, poured concrete and concrete blocks.

Wood Foundations (PWF – Permanent Wood Foundation) uses processed and treated lumber that has been made resistant to elements such as moisture and termites.

Concrete VS Wood

Concrete foundations take longer to install than wood foundations. Concrete is much more durable than wood and is resistant to fires and termite attacks, whereas Termite or rot-resistant wood would cost extra. This might increase the cost of installation. Wood also allows for simpler repair access of utilities such as wiring and plumbing. Wood basements can also be easily modified and restructured. The PWF also has a 2 * 6 or 2* 8 exterior stud making it the more insulated option of the two. This provides a much warmer basement, requiring less heating and cooling and so lowering your energy usage and costs. Another risk associated with concrete foundations is cracking. This is due to moisture absorption and temperature changes that cause expansion and contraction. Treated Wood foundations are utterly resistant to moisture.