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 Foundation | Wood Foundation |
Relatively durable, can withstand heat damage | Likely to be attacked by termites |
Takes longer to install | Easy to install |
Does not require maintenance | Occasionally requires reinforcement |
Difficult to modify or restructure | Easily modified and accessible for repairs and restructuring |
Vulnerable to moisture and cracking | Treated 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.