Backfill and foundation walls?

Originally Posted By: smcintire
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I have a question concerning concrete basement walls and backfill according to IRC R404.1.7. If the foundation is backfilled prior to the floor being attached are there any problems, other than the short-term possibility off damaging the wall during the backfill operation?


Originally Posted By: rcloyd
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Steve:


Foundation walls must be supported laterally at both the top and bottom
prior to backfill. This is to prevent any movement/rotation of the wall.
Failure to do this can cause a failure in the wall system. Ideally, the basement slab should be in place and the first floor joist system installed prior to backfill.

In reality, this rarely happens.

Best Regards,


--
Russell G. Cloyd
Intra-Spec Home Inspections
& Code Consulting, LLC
859-586-4591
www.intra-spechomeinspections.com

Originally Posted By: smcintire
This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.



Thanks Russell, I guess it is up to the builder to take that chance with the foundation, and for me to look for the cracks!