Can foundations here (in TN) be poured concrete or are most made from cinder block here? (I came from PA) And are they sealed with the black waterproofing sealant? I see this house has a crawl space, are basements possible here as well?
Thanks for your questions!
Poured foundations are more popular in the North due to the freeze-thaw factor. They are more resilient than block and mortar, with fewer areas for water to infiltrate and freeze. Depending on the concrete, it may be nonporous and not requiring waterproofing. An example would be Superior Walls, which are precast foundations, custom-made and ready to install on a gravel footer. They are pre-insulated, ready for drywall and guaranteed waterproof.
Basements are required to be waterproofed both out and in for maximum protection.
Block foundations for crawl spaces are not required to be waterproofed.
