High-Performance Home Excavation & Foundations

SEASON SIX, EPISODE EIGHT PODCAST TRANSCRIPT

From soil conditions and waterproofing to radon mitigation and pest control, this episode digs deep, literally, into how thoughtful planning and attention to detail create a foundation that lasts for generations.

Building from the Ground Up

Foundations may look simple, but they’re one of the most complex and critical parts of a custom home. The team explains that what appears to be just concrete actually involves extensive engineering, soil analysis, and building-science principles that affect comfort, durability, and efficiency.

The foundation stage can sometimes feel like a low point emotionally for clients because it looks small and plain after all the anticipation. But in reality, this phase sets the stage for everything that follows. A high-quality foundation means fewer problems, lower maintenance costs, and a healthier home for years to come.

Evaluating the Lot

Before any concrete is poured, the process starts with the land itself. Chris walks listeners through how Hibbs Homes evaluates each lot:

• Utilities: Are water, sewer, and power available, or will wells, septic systems, or new lines be needed?
• Topography: The slope of the lot determines drainage, walkouts, and cost.
• Soil Conditions: Clay, rock, or ravines may require extra excavation or engineering.
• Trees and Access: Clearing wooded lots adds cost; infill builds require careful coordination with neighbors and existing infrastructure.

Having your builder involved before purchase helps uncover hidden costs and ensure the lot supports your design goals.

Understanding Soil & Engineering

No two sites are alike, and so neither are their soils, which is why it is smart to hire a soil engineer - even in areas without permit requirements. For a few hundred dollars, an engineer can identify hidden voids or soft soils that could lead to cracking or settlement later.

If unsuitable soils are found, builders can add crushed rock, widen footings, or install piers that extend down to bedrock.

Managing Water & Moisture

Water is a foundation’s worst enemy. Hibbs Homes goes above and beyond industry norms by:

• Installing a capillary break: a waterproof barrier on top of the footings that prevents moisture from wicking into basement walls.
• Using crushed-gravel bases to promote drainage and keep foundations dry during construction.
• Applying lifetime-warranty waterproofing that extends above grade to prevent cracks and leaks.
• Installing interior and exterior drain tiles to capture and redirect groundwater.

These systems work together to prevent humidity, mold, and basement leaks, which is especially important when finishing lower-level living spaces.

Basements, Crawl Spaces & Alternative Systems

Different homes require different foundation types:

• Full Basements: Popular in the Midwest and Mountain West for added living space. When finished properly, they’re cost-effective and energy-efficient.
• Crawl Spaces: Offer easier access for utilities but must be carefully sealed and conditioned to prevent moisture buildup.
• ICF (Insulated Concrete Forms): Concrete poured between foam panels creates a highly efficient, quiet, and resilient structure.
• Superior Walls: Factory-poured wall panels installed on-site for a clean, uniform finish.

Each option offers benefits depending on climate, soil, and budget.

Water Management Details That Matter

There are a few details that make a big difference in long-term foundation performance:

• Use crushed rock backfill near patios and walkways to prevent settling.
• Ensure proper grading away from the home to move water downhill.
• Add drains to window wells connected to the home’s sump or daylight system.
• Avoid expansive clay or poor soils when backfilling, these can push against foundation walls.

By paying attention to the way the foundation is crafted, you can save yourself the headache and expense later down the road from water damage.

Radon & Pest Protection

High-performance homes don’t stop at waterproofing, they also protect against invisible threats.

• Radon Systems: Hibbs Homes installs a passive radon mitigation system in every St Louis home, with concealed piping that can easily be upgraded to active if needed. A sealed sump system prevents gas leaks.
• Termite Treatment: Before basement concrete is poured, the slab area is pre-treated—an inexpensive step that provides lifelong protection against pests.

Surprises in the Field During Excavation

After twenty years building, there have been plenty of unexpected discoveries during excavation, from old cisterns filled with 1800s medicine bottles to hidden sinkholes.

These surprises highlight why professional experienced solving and contingency funds are crucial when building custom. A good rule of thumb: include a 5–10% contingency in your construction budget for unforeseen site conditions. If it’s not used, it simply stays in the bank.

The Psychology of Foundations

Homeowners often feel underwhelmed when the foundation is first poured because the house inevitably looks smaller than expected. This optical illusion is normal, and once framing begins, the home’s true scale takes shape.

A high-performance home starts long before walls go up. From soil engineering to capillary breaks and radon systems, every step below ground affects how the home performs above it.

For more information visit www.artofcustompodcast.com or find us on Facebook and LinkedIn as The Art of Custom. Be sure to subscribe to get the latest episodes and please rate and review. The Art of Custom is produced by HugMonster sound with original music by Adam Frick-Verdeen. Thanks for listening.