Why poured concrete foundations are the current standard
Poured walls act like a monolithic beam. No joints. No stack-up of tolerance like block courses.
Advantages
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higher compressive strength potential
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reduced crack lines (fewer joints)
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faster set / faster dry-in schedule
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easier integration with waterproofing membranes
Block isn’t necessarily “bad” — but it’s fundamentally joint-based. Poured is a single structure.
What determines performance is mostly in the details
1) Soil preparation + bearing
A geotech should confirm soil bearing capacity.
If your builder shrugs when asked, that’s a flag.
2) Footings matter more than the walls
The concrete footings distribute load.
Thicker / wider footings + correct rebar schedule = fewer settlement calls 5 years later.
3) Placement & vibration
Bleed water management + proper vibration = bond.
Over-vibration can segregate. Under-vibration leaves honeycombing.
4) Waterproofing + water management
Exterior basement waterproofing membranes, drainage board, and proper perimeter drain tile are what protect finishes decades later.
Cost ranges (typical residential)
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poured walls: $14–$33 / sq ft of wall surface area
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footings: $18–$40 / linear foot (region + thickness dependent)
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waterproofing: $3–$9 / sq ft additional
Costs change drastically by region due to labor + concrete price.
When foundation repair later becomes expensive
Most “foundation repair” problems that show up years later are caused by:
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poor drainage
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no membrane at the outside face
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improper soil compaction
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undersized footings for the loading
All four are decisions made before concrete is even poured.
Final takeaway
A poured concrete foundation is the most proven structural start for a home — but only when the contractor respects the fundamentals: soils, footing sizing, reinforcement, and water control.