Punktfundament

Punktfundament, in English commonly called a pad footing or pad foundation, is a shallow foundation that transfers the load of a single structural element, typically a column, to the ground through a small, discrete concrete pad. The pad rests on soil with sufficient bearing capacity and spreads the load over a defined area to minimize settlements.

The size and depth of a punktfundament depend on the column load, soil bearing capacity, and allowable settlement. Pads are usually square or rectangular and may range from roughly 0.6 by 0.6 meters to several square meters, with thickness commonly between 0.3 and 0.6 meters. Concrete is typically reinforced to resist bending and cracking, and the foundation is positioned to extend below the frost line where applicable.

Design and construction considerations include ensuring adequate bearing capacity, limiting differential settlement, and protecting against frost and groundwater effects. If the soil is weak or loads are high, alternative foundations such as strip or combined footings, raft foundations, or piles may be required. Proper drainage and compaction of the supporting soil are important to maintain performance.

Construction involves excavating to the pad depth, building formwork, placing reinforcement, pouring concrete, and curing. Punktfundamente are commonly used for low-rise buildings, houses, and light structures with loads concentrated at columns, where a simple, economical foundation solution is appropriate.

Advantages of this type include simplicity, lower cost for small loads, and rapid construction. Limitations include a risk of differential settlement on weak soils and limited applicability for larger loads or poor soil conditions, where more extensive foundations are necessary.