[Easy E]

I have a question for you foundation experts out there. How long can a foundation sit after it's completed before it needs to be framed. Is there some kind of time limit or can the foundation stay freestanding for any amount of time . Thanks for your response in advance

 

[jlsconstruction]

As long as it needs to. Don't back fill till after the floor system is done

 

[NYCB]

Pretty sure it can sit forever, but you might end up with a swimming pool.

I do think you have to wait something like 2 weeks before back filling though.

 

[Easy E]

So as long as it's free standing with no back fill it's no problem to sit 4 months . Does weather effect it at all . Thanks

 

[mudpad]

Drainage would be the key, and the subsoil type. If you have a fatty clay soil it will expand when wet/ shrink when dry, you want to be sure to have good drainage so that you don't have standing water on either side of your footings.

If you got a foundation you need to build on it!

 

[jlsconstruction]

So as long as it's free standing with no back fill it's no problem to sit 4 months . Does weather effect it at all . Thanks

I'd atleast get the floor done, poly over it, and back fill. Advantech sub floor

 

[Chris Johnson]

What's the location?

Without that answer, your question can't be answered

 

[Easy E]

Ok thanks for the advice guys. I was looking to try paying for some of the construction costs and there would be a few months downtime between foundation and framing . Thanks again

 

[Easy E]

Northern Virginia

 

[Easy E]

Thanks jls construction , ya that's a good idea. Thanks

 

[Warren]

You should be fine. Straw the footers if there is any risk of freezing prior to backfill.

 

[Easy E]

Thanks warren , I appreciate your advice

 

[Chris Johnson]

N. Virginia, winter is quickly approaching, I'd get the deck on it. Straw works, personally I wouldn't rely on it for a long period, get some small construction heater in there to stop the chill. This isn't the time of year to be messing around.

 

[Easy E]

Hey Chris , I was planning on starting in the spring. I was planning on letting it sit about 4 months . But I liked the idea someone said about getting the decking done as well.but you are right about the area here. Thanks Chris

 

[Warren]

The deck and the heater are definitely a plus.The straw works well, but you can't skimp on it. The cleanup later is a pain though.

 

[Easy E]

Thanks guys, this was some educational info

 

[mudpad]

We may not tell you what you want to hear, but if you ask, you will definitely get some opinions. :laughing:

 

[Easy E]

Lol, it's good though

 

[Chris Johnson]

If the frost is out and not coming back in the spring, you can let that bad boy sit till next winter, personally I wouldn't but it will be fine, I like to get them back filled as soon as possible for safety

 

[Easy E]

Thanks Chris