Poured and block foundations both sit on concrete footings, or poured pads that serve as a base for the walls. Footings are constructed in trenches dug beneath the level of the basement floor.

Q: I’ve heard all kinds of things from friends about concrete foundation piers ... who is using a concrete pier to support a deck, room addition or even a home, this is not a big issue.

Q: I've been researching foundation types for both new homes and room additions. I've narrowed it down to either poured concrete or concrete block. Many websites say poured concrete is better than ...

One of the things I don't fully understand is the foundation footer. I'm also stumped about piers. What's the real purpose of these things? Can you install a foundation without concrete footings?

Q: I’ve been researching foundation types for both new homes and room additions. I’ve narrowed it down to either poured concrete or concrete block. Many websites say poured concrete is better ...

and it would go from room to room,” she said. •More than about 1 inch of separation between concrete foundation and surrounding soil •Possible erosion of more than 2 inches of surface soil ...