Do you need a sand cushion under the foundation?

The question "do we need a sand and gravel cushion under the foundation" worries thousands of independent builders. Paradoxically, on the Internet this seemingly simple question is given different answers. In the article we will figure it out and dot the "i".

Sand pillow under #foundation: pros and cons

Typically, a special pillow is made of two types of materials:

• natural soil (sand, sand and gravel mixture or crushed stone);
• concrete preparation (low grades of cement);

At the same time, the ideal pillow is made of sand: for its amazing ability to quickly compact. Sand is poured in a layer of 15-20 cm, spilled with water and compacted necessarily.

Do you still need a pillow?

Definitely yes!
She plays an essential role. The sand cushion serves to level the base of the house and serves to evenly transfer weight from the walls and roof to the ground.

It is forbidden to allow the foundation to press on the ground.

But there is another, non-obvious role of the sand cushion for the foundation:

In fact, the sand bed saves concrete for the foundation.

Look: it is obvious to everyone that the foundation must be made below the level of soil freezing in order to avoid the action of the forces of frost heaving.

But you can pour 15-20 cm of sand or ASM, which do not increase in volume during the year, and thereby save a few cubic meters of expensive concrete.

If you are building a house of 100 squares, a sand cushion will save you 12-15 thousand rubles.

Your opinion in the comments is appreciated!

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