Foundation reinforcement is an arrangement of steel bars embedded in concrete. Its purpose is to increase the bearing capacity and resistance of the foundation to tensile stresses and shear forces. Reinforcement is used both in footings and in foundation slabs. Its layout, diameter and steel grade are specified in the design documentation.
Correctly constructed foundation reinforcement ensures that loads are transferred evenly from the building structure to the subsoil. In addition, it reduces the risk of cracks and fissures in the concrete. In the case of modular and frame houses, the foundations are usually lighter, but the reinforcement still plays an important role in stabilising the overall load-bearing system. It is necessary to lay reinforcement elements with respect to the concrete cover, appropriate overlaps and bond them according to the technical design. Inadequate reinforcement can lead to uneven settlement of the building or damage to the structure.
