"Concrete block walls have more versatility, walls are straighter, top of block is level, and a block basement, built correctly is stronger than poured walls," states Rodrigues. "Builders are led to believe poured foundations are stronger- so they are not taking the proper precautions during the installation that they take with block walls. I have seen many poured foundations installed with improper or inadequate drain tile and stone," adds Rodrigues.

According to Rodrigues, he has never seen poured walls installed correctly in the Milwaukee area. States Rodrigues, "Most of the installers in this area are not completing the installation of poured walls properly, very little steel reinforcement is done if any at all, and the forms are not properly vibrated to get rid of air pockets and to settle the concrete."

"Another consideration about poured concrete walls is that all concrete cracks and shrinks and there is no way to prevent this from occurring," says Rodrigues. "Builders in this area are not waiting the proper length of time for the concrete to cure and are not bracing the walls properly before they backfill and start construction on these poured wall foundations."

According to Rodrigues, another thing that is disturbing, is that poured wall foundations are not usually installed by skilled masonry craftsman, but rather by unskilled labor. He also feels block walls provide much more versatility in designing and building of custom homes. Masonry block fits automatically, allowing unlimited size and shape, including bays, curves and multiple corners. A poured foundation is limited by the forms the masonry foreman has at his disposal.

The most important reason for Rodrigues to install a block foundation versus a poured foundation is the benefits for his customers. "Concrete block is warmer in the winter, cooler in the summer, and drier all year round," states Rodrigues. "Concrete block stays drier year-round because it never sweats. The hollow core prevents the inside wall surface from picking up the outside moisture. Basements built with concrete block stay dry and comfortable in any season. A block basement is designed to trap the moisture in the core of the block and transfer this moisture to the bleeders in the drain tile. A poured foundation transfers moisture into the house- poured walls will sweat!"

"Also, block basements are easy and affordable to repair. Poured walls are still new to this area of the state and the costs in repairing them are yet to be seen," says Rodrigues.

After having used both poured and block foundations, Rodrigues and his experienced masonry crew prefer, recommend and will continue to use block foundations for all of their projects.



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