As the foundation sets, it contracts into itself ever-so-slightly. If you start erecting the wall before the concrete dries properly, you will be increasing the likelihood of a gap appearing. Avoid working on wet concrete whenever possible. You can also (carefully) play it by feel to determine whether the concrete is ready to bear weight. It is recommended that you give concrete a window of about 48-60 hours to dry and harden. However, the setting of the concrete may be the most critical stage of laying the foundation. Make sure the person(s) responsible for mixing sticks to the correct instructions. Mixing concrete is not as simple as one might think, so great care must be taken. Whether it’s mixing, pouring, or setting the concrete, a significant number of so-called “experts” often find themselves erring. One of the things that both builders and owners tend to rush through the most is the foundation itself. Workers who perform rush jobs actually consume more time because of all the re-doing that will be required. Unfortunately, your money is what’s at stake here, as well as your time. This would be fine and dandy if time-outs were the only penalty to fear. Builders, homeowners, and home inspectors often find themselves (and each other) in a Mexican standoff over this very issue, yet no one ever seems to learn. With time, a gap (or cove joint) will form as the walls and floor inch away from each other until they are dry.Īnother reason why a gap might form between your house’s frame and the foundation is one that we have all been taught to avoid since kindergarten: rush jobs. When the floor concrete is poured, it too will cure and contract into itself. During this time, the walls cure and contract, just a little. The wall concrete is then poured into a groove known as a key way to keep it in line with the foundation and it too is left to set for 48-60 hours. When the concrete that will serve as a house’s foundation is poured, it must be left to set and harden for at least 48 hours (depending on the environment, weather, etc) before the wall frames are put in place. This gap is known as a cove joint, and it is perfectly normal. In most situations, the (inexperienced) homeowner has nothing to worry about. There are quite a few reasons behind the unsightly gap. Why Is There A Gap Between The Foundation And The Framing?
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