Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find information on flame spread performance of wood products?
Technical Report (TR) No. 7 and Wood Construction Data (WCD) No. 6 do not clearly identify a concrete footing as an option to gravel beneath a basement wall. Figure 19 on page 32 of Southern Forest Products Association (SFPA)'s PWF Design and Construction Guide, however, does include a concrete footing under an exterior basement wall as an option. You will notice that if a concrete footing is used, gravel, crushed rock or coarse sand is required along the sides of the concrete and beneath it or alternately, drains through the footing are required. It would also be ok to combine both methods.
The above methods allow water to move to the designated drainage area. The preferred method of drainage is by gravity to day light. Other options include use of a sump or drainage to a sewer.
See permanent wood foundations FAQ