Stem-walls are structures that are used to connect the foundation of a building to its walls. Predominantly constructed concrete footings with masonry walls, they rise above the ground level to provide a raised platform for placing the building slab

What is the purpose of a stem wall?

The stem walls transmit the load from the house to the footing (often a spread footing, which has a wider bottom section) and then it is distributed over a larger area. They protect the house itself. By lifting the base of the house, its walls are protected from flooding and some other environmental hazards.

Is a stem wall foundation good?

Stem walls are far more labor-intensive. But, they also serve homeowners well when the land can’t be perfectly leveled and compacted. So, they provide a bit of assurance that a home can be built on varying terrain and, due to the elevation they create, they also serve people well who live in flood plains.