What is a Stem Wall?

A stem wall is a component of construction projects that is used to build up the concrete slab and elevate it higher than the yard. In a nutshell, a stem wall is crucial in building a house when the ground level is not suitable to support the weight of the house. This is the case in Florida, where the soil is soft and cannot withstand the weight of a house. In such a situation, a stem wall is built to provide a sturdy base for the house.

The stem wall is constructed by digging down to the required depth below the ground level and putting in a big concrete footing, which is usually 12 inches by 24 inches. The stem wall itself is then built using blocks, which are then filled with concrete. The blocks are also fitted with rebar to make the wall strong. The rebar helps tie the slab and the stem wall together.

Once the stem wall is complete, it is filled with dirt and then a concrete slab is poured on top of it. The concrete slab is poured solid and also has rebar to tie it to the stem wall. The result is a sturdy base for the house that can withstand the weight of the house and its occupants.

The stem wall is different from a slab on grade, which is a concrete slab that is just a few inches above the yard level. A slab on grade is typically used in Florida when the house needs to be kept at ground level, within a couple of inches. However, the downside of a slab on grade is that it can crack and sink over time if there is any drainage or water situation, which can lead to a dip in the floor.

In contrast, a stem wall provides a strong base for the house, as it is entirely filled with concrete and has rebar to tie it to the slab. This makes it a better option for house construction projects where the house needs to be raised above ground level. It also provides a solution to the issue of a soft soil in Florida, as it creates a solid base that can support the weight of the house.

In conclusion, a stem wall is an essential component of construction projects in Florida, where the soil is soft and cannot support the weight of a house. It provides a solid base for the house, by digging down and putting in a big concrete footing and then building a wall using blocks and concrete. The wall is then filled with dirt, and a concrete slab is poured on top of it, which is then tied to the stem wall using rebar. The result is a sturdy base for the house that can withstand its weight and provide a long-lasting solution to the issue of a soft soil in Florida.