Site clearing and excavation methods for raised
floor systems are no different than for any other conventional
foundation system. Compacted backfill should be free of organic
materials, including tree stumps or other vegetation, voids,
chunks of clay, and should be no more permeable than the surrounding
soil.
Raised Floors Can Save Trees
Root-severing slab construction often demands the removal of
existing trees in close proximity to the structure. Near a raised
floor, however, valuable, beautiful, and energy-saving shade
trees can be preserved. Only the footings of a raised pier-and-beam
structure penetrate the root system, allowing trees to thrive.
Open pier spacing can be adjusted to avoid major
tree roots. Tree roots thrive between piers.
