For foundation construction, heaving soils are a specific problem, which involves taking into account the impact force, mass and expected load. This primarily applies to clay, dusty and fine-grained soil. In winter, the water in the soil layers freezes and swells, and the process occurs unevenly. In this regard, the settlement of the structure can pose a certain threat, leading to deformations in the supporting structures. In this case, it is very important to properly arrange the foundation. Soil properties have a direct effect on it, so they should be considered first.
First, the type of foundation is selected that can ensure the reliability of the entire structure. Where heaving soil is present, if a columnar foundation is chosen for a large-sized building, then it must be laid below the freezing depth of the soil. For private buildings, this option is not suitable, since the heaving force is able to squeeze out the foundation, the load from which is much lower. In private construction, as a rule,shallow and shallow bases from posts.
As for the strip foundation, it is also allowed to install it on heaving soils. However, shallow-depth options are allowed to be used only if the depth of soil freezing does not exceed 1.7 meters. Depending on the heaving of the soil, the type of strip foundation is selected. On lands with low mobility, concrete blocks without a rigid connection can be used. However, in other cases, a rigid hitch or monolithic reinforced concrete is required. Pile-based structures are not widely used in individual construction, as they involve the involvement of special equipment.
What actions can be taken if heaving soils are present on the site? The most radical option is to dig a pit, the depth of which will exceed the level of freezing of the earth. In the future, it is covered with compacted sand, which acts as an excellent foundation for the foundation. This method can be considered the most reliable, but in this case, the financial costs will be very serious, which is primarily due to the large amount of work.
Another technique that can positively affect heaving soils is insulation. This is especially true in the construction of light shallow structures. By laying heat-insulating material on the ground along the perimeter of the foundation, it is possible to avoid freezing of this soil. The width of the insulation must matchfreezing depth. As for the thickness of the thermal insulation, it is selected individually. You can also try to divert water from the house: if there is none, then the soil will not swell. To bring this idea to life, a drainage system is being created that can provide high-quality drainage. Thus, the water from the soil will go to the side without negatively affecting the soil.
