Concrete Foundations & Footings

The Most Critical Part of Any Structure

Your foundation is literally what holds everything up. Whether you're building a new home, adding a room addition, or installing a deck, the foundation determines how well your structure performs for decades to come. A poorly built foundation leads to cracks, settling, moisture problems, and costly repairs.

At KindWay Novato Concrete, we specialize in residential and light commercial foundations and footings. We understand Novato's soil conditions, local building codes, and the engineering principles that create stable, long-lasting foundations. From simple shed footings to complete home foundations, we build it right the first time.

Foundation and Footing Types We Install

Different projects require different foundation approaches. Here's what we offer:

• •Slab-on-Grade Foundations: A monolithic slab that combines the foundation and floor in one pour, ideal for mild climates
• •Perimeter Footings: Continuous footings around the building's perimeter that support foundation walls
• •Pier and Beam Foundations: Isolated footings that support posts or piers, common for decks and additions
• •Strip Footings: Continuous concrete strips that support load-bearing walls
• •Column Footings: Individual pads that support posts, columns, or structural supports
• •Retaining Wall Footings: Specialized footings designed to support retaining walls and masonry structures

Why Proper Foundation Work Matters

Foundations are unforgiving. You can't see them once they're finished, and fixing problems later is expensive and disruptive. Here's what proper foundation work prevents:

Settling and Movement

Properly sized and reinforced footings distribute weight evenly and prevent differential settling. When one part of a foundation settles more than another, cracks appear in walls, doors stick, and floors become uneven.

Moisture and Drainage Issues

Good foundation design includes proper drainage and moisture barriers. Water that collects around foundations causes erosion, weakens concrete, and creates moisture problems inside the structure. We grade sites correctly and install drainage systems when needed.

Structural Failure

Undersized footings or insufficient reinforcement can lead to catastrophic failure. We calculate loads, consult engineering specifications, and build foundations that meet or exceed code requirements. Your structure's safety depends on it.

Our Foundation Installation Process

Foundation work requires precision, planning, and attention to detail. Here's how we approach every project:

Site Evaluation: We assess soil conditions, drainage, and site access. Soil testing may be required for larger projects to determine bearing capacity.

Excavation and Grading: We dig to the required depth, typically below the frost line or as specified by local codes. Proper excavation creates a stable base for footings.

Forming and Reinforcement: We build precise forms that define the foundation's shape and dimensions. Rebar placement follows engineering specifications and is inspected before pouring. Proper reinforcement prevents cracking and handles tensile loads.

Pouring and Finishing: We coordinate concrete delivery, pour continuously to avoid cold joints, and vibrate the concrete to eliminate voids. Proper finishing and curing ensure maximum strength.

Inspection and Quality Control: Many foundation projects require building inspections before and after concrete placement. We coordinate with inspectors and ensure everything meets code requirements.

Serving Novato, CA with Local Expertise

Novato's soil conditions vary by neighborhood. Some areas have expansive clay soils that move with moisture changes. Others have rocky or sandy soils with different bearing capacities. We've worked throughout the area and understand these local conditions.

We're familiar with Marin County building codes and work with local inspectors regularly. Whether you're building a new home, adding a room, or installing a foundation for a garage or workshop, we bring the expertise and quality workmanship your project deserves.

Frequently Asked Questions