Bearing Capacity

Related terms

• Footing

  The widened concrete base below a foundation wall or post that spreads the structure's load over enough soil to prevent settling. New str…

• Blocking / Bridging

  Short pieces between joists or studs that stabilize members against twisting and distribute load. Often required at mid-span by code.

• Basement Foundation

  A foundation with full-height usable space below grade. Offers expansion potential but adds waterproofing and egress requirements when fi…

• Bowing Wall

  A foundation wall pushed inward by soil or hydrostatic pressure. Severity dictates the fix — straps, anchors, bracing, or rebuild.

• Aggregate

  The sand and gravel/stone that makes up most of concrete's volume, providing strength and bulk in the cement matrix.

• Cantilever

  A structural member extending beyond its support, loaded at the free end (e.g., a bumped-out floor or balcony). Backspan and connection a…

• Carbon Fiber Strap

  High-strength strips bonded to a bowing foundation wall to arrest further inward movement — a less invasive alternative to wall replaceme…

• CMU (Concrete Masonry Unit)

  A concrete block used for foundation and structural walls, often grouted and reinforced with rebar at intervals.