Foundation types explained: 7 systems from spread footings to pile foundations. Learn when to use each based on soil conditions and building loads.

Every building you'll ever design depends on something you'll never see: the foundation. And on the ARE, understanding that invisible piece is what helps you make the right decisions early in design.

This episode breaks down the 7 most popular foundation types, organized from simple to complex. We start with shallow foundations like spread footings, continuous footings, combined footings, and mat foundations. Then we move into deep foundations for when surface soil can't support your building: pile foundations, caissons, and grade beams.

For each foundation type, you'll learn what it is, when to use it, real-world examples, and specific exam tips for the ARE. We also cover how foundation choice affects your structural system, construction costs, and project schedule.

Whether you're studying for the PA, PPD, or PDD exam, or just want to understand foundation selection better, this episode gives you the foundation knowledge (pun intended) you need.

Chapters:

0:00 - Introduction

2:22 - Foundation Type #1: Spread Footings (Isolated Footings)

4:39 - Foundation Type #2: Continuous Footings (Wall Footings)

6:49 - Foundation Type #3: Combined Footings

8:46 - Foundation Type #4: Mat Foundations (Raft Foundations)

11:25 - Transition: Moving from Shallow to Deep Foundations

12:31- Foundation Type #5: Pile Foundations

15:08 - Foundation Type #6: Caissons (Drilled Piers)

18:29 - Foundation Type #7: Grade Beams

20:59 - Wrap-Up: How Foundation Choice Affects Design

Episode Resources:

- Read the full blog post: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/foundation-types/

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