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marclind
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# Posted: 8 May 2017 12:02pm
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Hi, I'm in the process of starting a small cabin project (trying to keep below building code issues). My idea right now is for around 10 x 12 with a loft area. (going pretty modern, so looking at different modern tiny home ideas). Anyways we're located in Ontario, in a clay soil area, and I'm trying to get around digging down 5 plus feet to get under the frost line. Given the small size would one of the following work?
1. Pylex, might run into rock issues when drilling in , I see they have vertical stabilizers and definitely can handle the weight.
2. Digging down 6" or so over the complete area, filling with crushed gravel, and using 6" concrete blocks for support over top.
With this I'm sure it will need some jacking and adjusting over time, but a much easier alternative.
Your thoughts??
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razmichael
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# Posted: 8 May 2017 12:14pm - Edited by: razmichael
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Not directly related to the foundation issue:
"trying to keep below building code" in Ontario is not always that easy. Since you imply you are in an area that enforces building codes, be careful. Most places where a small size is exempt, refers to an accessory structure only - needs a main structure as well - this is often misunderstood. Also strict limits on what you can do with an accessory structure - can't be used for sleeping etc. Most places in Ontario are not that flexible!
See the last few posts in thisThread
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bldginsp
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# Posted: 8 May 2017 05:58pm
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One option is a floating slab- 10" or a foot thick with double rebar mats. Pour it right on the surface or drop it a few inches in the earth. It's rigid and won't crack if heaved unevenly.
Any other alternative above the frost line will need future adjustment, so you could plan for this by supporting the whole structure with screw jacks.
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rockies
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# Posted: 8 May 2017 07:02pm
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Try this. You can place it right on top of the soil and it doesn't require any excavation, concrete, formwork or drilling. It's perfect for unstable soils and should you need to move the cabin later you can take the foundation with you. The company is located in Ontario.
http://multipoint-foundations.com/
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bldginsp
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# Posted: 8 May 2017 08:07pm
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I wonder what the multipoint would cost for a 10x12 or 14x24. Could be that they have standard sizes, so the most economical way to do it would be to build in increments of those standard sizes.
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rockies
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# Posted: 8 May 2017 08:53pm
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They design it like "modules". One module would be something like 6' x 10'. It comes with all the cross bars and posts and you can even get support brackets so that you can easily attach the wooden support beams for the floor.
The nice thing is that each post can be adjusted so that the frame remains perfectly level no matter if the ground heaves from frost or water. Even if one of the posts loses contact with the ground the other posts and crossbars will keep the frame rigid.
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Just
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# Posted: 8 May 2017 10:05pm
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I am building one starting Fri. . It will be a 9 x 12, on 6 piers, each 18 x 18 x 7 ,dug in to grade,with one 6 in block on each pier filed with cement,, then a 6x6 x12ft. skid on each side. If it moves a bit it can easily be shimed up once in a wile.
This one is on sand but I have built them on clay with good results.
total cost of the footings 100$.We have a limit of 108sq. ft.in Ontario Canada.no permit but you must have a existing residence on the lot.We have notified the township and have their blessing.
It will have a loft with room for 2 beds with room to stand up and dress..
good luck with your project.
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marclind
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# Posted: 8 May 2017 11:58pm
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Hi just, sounds like a good plan, what do you mean by "6 inch block on each pier filed with cement?
Good luck with your project as well!
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Just
Member
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# Posted: 9 May 2017 12:14pm
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I ment a standard 6 in cement block ( 6 x8 x16 in),the kind with 2 holes in it ,,center the block on the pier pads with the holes up and fill them with a few cups of cement leval with the top of the block
Then place the 6x6x12ft skids on top of the three blocks..
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david_woods
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# Posted: 12 May 2017 10:05am
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Quoting: marclind I'm in the process of starting a small cabin project (trying to keep below building code issues). My idea right now is for around 10 x 12 with a loft area. (going pretty modern, so looking at different modern tiny home ideas). Anyways we're located in Ontario, in a clay soil area, and I'm trying to get around digging down 5 plus feet to get under the frost line.
Hi Marc,
Sounds like you're trying to create a strip foundation without the digging! You idea of digging down 6" and using concrete blocks could work providing you don't have any significant load from the cabin.
Take a look at log cabin foundations if you haven't yet, it's an informative WiKi with loads of foundation types for different soil types.
Good luck 
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