Foundation block stops one foot below grade
user-7664432
| Posted in Construction Techniques on
My house has a finished basement for half the square footage. The basement block wall stops one foot below grade then wood framing starts. They attempted to protect the wood from moisture with a very thin roll of copper then poured concrete around the perimeter. I am attempting to replace my siding and wondering the best method of protecting the wood framing that is below grade from moisture.
Replies
That’s not good. If you can adjust grade to get framing above earth that would be best, but I’m assuming that’s not a doable plan at this point. Framing is never supposed to be below grade, but there are a few exceptions. Wood foundations are allowed by code, but require very specific construction details and materials. I’m assuming these details and materials have not been met in your situation. We do encounter a similar situation where concrete stoop meets wood structure quite often. It is handled in a similar way to your current condition with a flat flashing. Ideally we try to time the framing construction at stoop to coincide with foundation waterproofing, so the waterproofing contractor can spray rubber coating on the framing (need to apply oil based primer to wood first). This is ideal, but timing usually doesn’t work out. We most often apply a good quality ice and water shield over the framing (or liquid applied waterproofing) and follow with metal flashing on top of that. Off the top of my head for code, the flashing needs to go up 6” higher than concrete (don’t hold me to it), but we usually go 12” higher b/c we can get good snow drifts in our region. There should be a lot of details available online for flashing details at stoop, probably available in the archives on this site as well. Make sure when you install new siding that you see exposed flashing. The siding should not be placed tight to grade.
Thank you. This is very helpful.