FAQ
How thick is the basement slab?
Basement slabs can be cut anywhere from 2-6 inches thick depending on desired strength. Developers often try to save money by using less concrete. This often results in cracking and more costly repairs later on. Our slabs are 6 inches thick to ensure toughness.
How is the basement slab further protected from cracking?
We have reinforced our basement slabs with steel wire mesh and tied them into the foundation wall with steel rebar. These measures were taken in order to prevent cracking from water pressure underneath the slabs. The rebar prevents the slabs from separating from the foundation wall of the house.
Does the basement slab provide any protection from moisture?
We have added an additional “vapor barrier” to the basement slabs to ensure protection from moisture or water penetrating through the floors.
How much strength does the foundation have and how do you ensure it?
Our foundation has #6 steel rebar running vertically tied to #4 rebar that runs horizontally, every 16 inches apart to ensure strength and stability.
How are the party walls between attached homes, the front wall, and the rear walls constructed?
The party walls, as well as the front and rear walls, are made from 8 inch wide block that is filled with both concrete and #4 steel rebar 16 inches apart. In some cases 12 thick blocks were used. Because of the cost, most developers are only using a concrete block structure for the party walls but not the front and rear walls.
How big are the window and balcony openings?
Heavy gauge steel ‘I-beams’ have been used on top of window openings instead of regular steel lentils. This allows for both larger window and balcony openings. Most developers save money during construction by creating smaller window openings because less expensive steel is required for smaller window and balcony openings.
Have the stairs and floors been designed to reduce noise and carry a large amount of weight?
Both the stairs and the floors are made from prestressed concrete planks rather than wood or a steel joist floor structure. Prestressed concrete is the strongest type of construction and permeates the least amount of noise.
Can the the above statements be certified?
Yes. The architect and/or engineer will certify that the builder has answered all the above questions truthfully and that the properties are in the condition described.
Please note: Although many of the finishes may look the same with new construction, all homes are not built the same. Inquire about the structural integrity of your investment before you buy. Making the wrong decision may cost you a lot more in the long term to fix what the builder may have not done when the house was constructed.
Although all information furnished is deemed correct, no express or implied representation is made as to the exactness thereof and is subject to error and or changes without notice.