Messages and Online Forum Q&A

Re: wood foundations

From: info@builderswebsource.com
Category: Foundations and Basements
Remote Name: 63.198.181.43
Date: 13 Jul 2001
Time: 02:59 PM

Comments

Permanent Wood Foundations (PWF) or All Weather Wood Foundations (AWWF) consist of pressure-treated lumber and plywood suitable for use in foundations and basements and are approved for use by most major building codes. Hundreds of thousands of systems have been installed with successful long-term performance. Permanent Wood Foundations are not suitable for all soil types, so it's important to study where they're best applied.

Most builders are not familiar with this legitimate form of construction. However, our feeling is that if budget isn't the issue, a properly engineered poured concrete foundation has proven durability and strength and is generally not susceptible to dry rot or termite damage. Of course, any wood members, even if above ground, can be subject to insect infestations or dry rot due to moisture problems, which can still prevail regardless of the type of foundation system you choose. Proper foundation drainage is critical with all foundation types.

Before making a decision, we suggest you study the subject further. An excellent source of free information is available from the Southern Pine Council at http://www.southernpine.com. A comprehensive downloadable document is available in PDF format at: http://www.southernpine.com/pwfbook2001.pdf. The file is about 2.2MB and you'll need Adobe Acrobat reader to view it. Keep in mind this document is written by an organization promoting the use of wood, but it is a useful document to help educate you on the benefits and considerations of an all-wood foundation. More information is also available from the APA at http://www.apawood.org or from the American Forest and Paper Association at http://www.afandpa.org.

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