No matter how nice you finish a construction project out (granite counter tops, expensive flooring, etc…) if you have a poor foundation it will all fall apart. Typically it costs about 25-35% of the total project cost just to dig a basement and install a proper footing and foundation! This is a lot of cash that goes into something never to be seen or heard from again!! But it is money well spent.

I have seen solid concrete walls 10 inches thick crack and spread apart enough for me to stick my hand in because of a poorly constructed foundation! The code books have minimums that must be adhered to, but even these are a bit skinny at times. I prefer to build something that will last! Most contractors use 3000 lbs concrete for footings, I use 3500-4000 lbs concrete. This is closing in on the strength of concrete used on skyscrapers. I also add fiber which gives the concrete even more strength.

So how much does this type of overkill strengthening cost???

About $1 per 1 linear foot. So if the perimeter of you house was 200 feet it would cost $200 more to have a home sitting on a foundation that would last a lifetime.

Cutting corners and meeting minimums is not worth the very small savings to have great peace of mind.