The foundation is the underground area on which a building is carried out.
Before defining the term foundation , it is necessary to know its etymological origin. In this case, it must be stated that it is a word that comes from Latin. Exactly it derives from caementum , which is used to refer to the part of a building that is located underground and that serves as a base for it. Word that is made up of two clearly differentiated parts:
-The verb caedere , which is synonymous with “cut”.
-The suffix -ment , which is used to indicate “result” or “means”.
Foundation concept
Foundation is a term that refers to the sector of a construction that is below the surface and on which the building is developed. The land that houses a building is also called a foundation.
For example: “The workers are working on the foundations of the work” , “The authorities will analyze the foundations of the old factory to determine if it is possible to carry out its restoration” , “When a building has flaws in its foundations, it is very “It will probably end up collapsing.”
The structural elements are developed on the foundation.
Foundation development
The action of establishing the foundations of a construction is called foundation . The foundation is usually developed by digging to then install the structural elements that support the vertical development. According to the characteristics of the terrain, the process is carried out in different ways and with different materials.
The foundations must be very resistant, they must be able to withstand various types of stress and aggression and they must also be able to accommodate possible movements of the ground .
Foundation Classification
It is possible to differentiate between shallow foundations , semi-deep foundations and deep foundations . In the same way, we cannot ignore other types of foundations, such as the following:
– Pillars . These are those that are identified because they have a measured depth and consist of using what are concrete pillars. This foundation, also known by the name well, is usually used in constructions that are developed on soft ground.
– Footing foundation , which is used when the building is going to be undertaken on very resistant soils capable of supporting large weights.
– Pile foundations . Under this name is a system that makes the building supported by small concrete piles that are made at a significant depth. It is also used on soft surfaces.
– Continuous slab foundation , which is necessary when the ground is unstable and when the construction will have a great weight.
Symbolic use of the concept
It is important to keep in mind that the idea of foundation is also used symbolically to refer to the root or support of something.
“Education is the foundation of human dignity since it provides the necessary tools for subsistence and development”, “We must protect the family because it is the foundation of society” y “Effort and study are the foundations of my professional career” son expresiones que muestran este uso.