View Full Version : How to build a house on a high water table?
TheFiasco
Mar 2, 2011, 09:18 AM
Good day, If I am about to build a house on land with a high water table.. I know very little about building.. would it be possible if you all can provide me with some information on what steps to take?? I was advised by someone to drive piles into the land and build from there.. does this make any sense? Feed back will be greatly appreciated.
joypulv
Mar 2, 2011, 09:36 AM
Where is this? Do you have a permit to build and have you done all the required perc tests and so on? Often times the inspector(s) can give you good advice about your particular soil and water table. Do you have any neighbors?
Unless I lived in the tropics I think I would run if the best thing to do was sink piles. Maybe if you then build the house 8' above the ground.
ma0641
Mar 2, 2011, 05:48 PM
Are you in a flood zone or just high water table? In some cases you will need to drive piling, concrete or pressure treat. In less severe cases, you may be able to get by with shorter 6X6 piers. As Jovpulv asks, Permit? What have the local authorities recommended.
ballengerb1
Mar 2, 2011, 07:05 PM
Please answer the questions presented because " build a house on land with a high water table.. i know very little about building" sounds like this could be a train wreck in the making.
manhattan42
Mar 2, 2011, 07:22 PM
The answer is very simple: Build the lowest floor above the highest water table height.
Won't be any problem for any code official.