Step-by-Step Guide “Laying the Blind Area Around the Foundation”
Proper laying of the blind area around the foundation is an important stage in construction that helps protect the foundation from external factors such as water, temperature changes, and mechanical damage. The blind area serves as a barrier, preventing water and moisture from penetrating into the foundation, which contributes to the durability and strength of the building.
Preparation for Laying the Blind Area
Selecting the material. For laying the blind area, choose a suitable material depending on climatic conditions, cost, and aesthetic preferences. Concrete is one of the most popular materials, providing durability and reliability, but tiles or stone can give the blind area a more decorative appearance. Make sure that the selected material meets the requirements of local construction norms and standards (for example, the Construction and Safety Law for structures in Italy — Legge n. 1086/1971). This also applies to the resistance of materials to mechanical loads and moisture exposure.
Surface preparation. Before laying the blind area, it is necessary to carefully prepare the area. To do this: Clear the area of debris, stones, and vegetation. Dig a strip around the foundation to a depth of about 10–15 cm (depending on the type of material for the blind area). Make sure that the surface will be level and slightly sloped away from the foundation to ensure water drainage. The slope should be about 1–2% (this means that for every 100 cm of surface, the drop should be 1–2 cm).
Following these recommendations is important to prevent possible drainage problems and to prevent water from reaching the foundation. In Italy, there is special legislation regulating such work, such as requirements for safe water drainage (for example, Legge n. 152/2006, which regulates water resource management).
Laying the Blind Area
Creating the slope. Before laying the blind area, it is necessary to provide the correct slope for draining water away from the foundation. The optimal slope is 1–2%, which means that for every 100 cm of the blind area length, the height will decrease by 1–2 cm. This is necessary to prevent water from accumulating near the foundation, which can lead to its destruction. Make sure that the slope is directed away from the foundation, contributing to effective drainage of rain and melt water.
Laying the blind area in layers. When the slope is set, start laying the blind area. If you are using concrete, first create a base of a sand or crushed stone cushion 5–10 cm thick to improve bonding. Then pour the concrete mix, leveling it using a screed or level to ensure a flat surface. For tiles or stone, use a laying mortar to fix each element in place. Make sure that the tile or stone fits tightly to the foundation surface to prevent moisture and dirt from getting between them.
Italian laws. The process of laying the blind area is regulated by local construction norms. It is important to comply with legislative requirements regarding water drainage and the use of building materials. For example, according to Italian law, when laying the blind area it is necessary to take into account specifications that ensure effective water drainage and foundation protection (for example, Legge n. 152/2006 on water resources and drainage).
Terms
Cushion — a layer of material (crushed stone, sand, etc.) used as a base for laying the blind area.
Bonding — the ability of materials to adhere firmly to each other, preventing their displacement and destruction.
Conclusion
Proper laying of the blind area around the foundation is an important step in construction that ensures the durability of your home. Following all stages of preparation, slope creation, and high-quality material laying will help avoid drainage problems and prevent foundation damage due to moisture. It is important to choose quality materials and follow construction norms both at the national level and within local legislation to guarantee effective protection of your home. Timely completion of this work will ensure strength and stability of the foundation for many years to come.
Instructions for Using the Checklist “Backfilling Space Around the Foundation”
Before starting work: Review each step of the guide to understand the entire process of laying the blind area.
Prepare materials and tools: Choose suitable materials for the blind area (concrete or tiles) and prepare all necessary tools for the work.
Follow the steps step by step: Start with site preparation, then create the slope for water drainage and carefully lay the blind area.
Check the quality of the work: After laying, make sure that the blind area is even, fits tightly to the foundation, and has the required slope for water drainage.
Use the guide as a reference: In case of doubts or problems with laying, return to the guide and clarify the necessary stages.
This guide will help you lay the blind area efficiently and with high quality, ensuring protection of the foundation from water and a long service life for your home.
