Option 1 – Poured concrete
A poured concrete foundation / stem wall is the most commonly used and is used in almost all the various building applications.
This option typically requires a Shop Drawing enabling the concrete subcontractor to properly place the vertical rebar.
Option 1A – Standard CMU with Omni Block top course
Standard CMU is used above the footing for all courses except for the top course where Omni Block is used. After Omni Block is laid it is then insulated in all the exterior cells with the Long Insert while the rest of the wall is solid grouted.
There are numerous advantages to the block stem option pictured below:
- Block is an economical solution for extended stem situations. Hillside lots would be an example.
- The dimensions of a block stem exactly matches the dimensions of the subsequent block above grade resulting in a seamless stem-to-vertical wall transition. In a poured concrete stem a single mis-measurement can cause the block above to be offset from the concrete below.
- Using Omni Block in the top course defines the cells where the vertical rebar is required resulting in the rebar being placed exactly where it should be.
- The insulated layer effectively insulates the slab where there is significant heat gain or loss.
- Once the block stem is laid the trusses or floor joists can be ordered.
- Electrical conduit and plumbing pipe can easily be installed prior to the stem being grouted.
The photo at left shows Omni Brick being used in the stem wall. The exterior cells are insulated and the rest of the block will be solid grouted. Photo was taken before any electrical or plumbing embeds were installed.