Cimiento

Cimiento, in civil engineering, is the structural element that transmits loads from a building to the ground. It provides stability, distributes vertical and horizontal forces, and controls settlement to ensure safety and serviceability.

Foundations are generally categorized as shallow or deep. Shallow foundations transfer loads to near-surface soils and include strip footings, isolated footings (pads), and raft foundations. When surface soils are weak or variable, deep foundations such as piles or drilled caissons reach stronger strata or bedrock.

Common materials are reinforced concrete, masonry, or steel, designed to codes applicable in the project. Design relies on geotechnical data: soil bearing capacity, settlement limits, groundwater, and frost action. Engineers select foundation type, size, and reinforcement to meet safety and serviceability criteria.

Construction involves site preparation, excavation, placing formwork and reinforcement, pouring concrete, curing, and backfilling. Adequate drainage and waterproofing protect the foundation, and frost protection is required in cold climates. Poor footing design or adverse soil conditions can cause excessive settlement, cracking, or bearing failure.

In Spanish, cimentación refers to both the foundation itself and the process of constructing foundations; cimiento usually denotes the physical element. Standards for design and construction vary by country; common references include Eurocode 7 (EN 1997) and ACI 318.