The stem wall is to a building what roots are to plants in terms of keeping them tied to the ground. The lack of seam in the concrete keeps it strong and prevents water from entering and weakening the structure. Though not the part of the building that is underfoot - what we would normally consider the only foundation - it anchors the foundation to the ground.Ī building is strengthened by a well-constructed stem wall, partially due to the fact that the concrete is poured in one continuous action. The stem wall is, effectively, part of the foundation. Once the stem wall is in place, gravel is packed on either side of the base of the lowest row which prevents the growth of vegetation. The process is completed in one go so that there is no separation between the foundation and the stem wall. This is done at the same time as the concrete slab that tops the foundation. Each row of cinder blocks is laid in turn before the concrete is poured. There are several stages to the construction of a stem wall, which begins with cinder blocks that are reinforced with steel rods and concrete.ĭepending on the building, the stem wall is usually built to the height of three cinder blocks. A trench is excavated around the foundation for the construction of the stem wall. This makes up the footprint of the building, and the stem wall will be constructed around it. It is completed and in place before the construction of the stem wall is considered.
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