What term describes a continuous foundation wall extending below the frost line to good bearing soil?

What term describes a continuous foundation wall extending below the frost line to good bearing soil?

• A. Grade beam
• B. Pile cap
• C. Lintel
• D. Counterfort

Answer: (A)

This term describes a reinforced concrete element that runs continuously along the foundation, forming the footing that carries the load of the foundation wall and spreads it to soil with adequate bearing capacity. By extending below the frost line, it stays beneath the depth where frost action can cause movement, keeping the structure stable. This continuous load path ties the walls to stable bearing soil, which is especially important when soils vary or frost concerns exist. It differs from a pile cap (which sits on piles), a lintel (which spans openings above doors or windows), and a counterfort (a buttress used in retaining walls).

This term describes a reinforced concrete element that runs continuously along the foundation, forming the footing that carries the load of the foundation wall and spreads it to soil with adequate bearing capacity. By extending below the frost line, it stays beneath the depth where frost action can cause movement, keeping the structure stable. This continuous load path ties the walls to stable bearing soil, which is especially important when soils vary or frost concerns exist. It differs from a pile cap (which sits on piles), a lintel (which spans openings above doors or windows), and a counterfort (a buttress used in retaining walls).