Foundation cracks can be serious and require assessment to determine the cause and necessary actions. Cracks in concrete, poured concrete, and cinder block foundations may be caused by shrinkage, while brick walls can crack due to moisture or settling. Stone walls can crack due to explosions or heavy traffic. Diagonal cracks may be caused by […]
Foundation support is added to existing structures for various reasons, such as damage or retrofitting. A structural engineer recommends support options, which may involve underpinning. Building occupants may need to be cleared during the process, and costs may be covered by those responsible for falsifying records. Foundation support is the structural support added to the […]
A slab foundation is a layer of concrete on which a structure is built, best suited to climates without freezing and thawing. It is cost-effective but has drawbacks such as strain on the body, higher heating costs, and limited space for appliances. Footings are critical for stability. A slab foundation is a layer of concrete, […]
Raised foundations are a popular option for homes and businesses, offering benefits such as flood protection and easier access to plumbing. However, they require more maintenance and can attract unwanted animals. The choice between raised and slab foundations depends on personal preference and location. A raised foundation is a foundation that, as the name suggests, […]
Foundation walls provide support for a house and are crucial to get right. Materials like poured concrete, blocks, bricks, and stone can be used. Cracking is a common problem caused by various factors. Foundation walls can be retrofitted or replaced, but it’s complicated. Commercial structures require bigger and stronger walls, and engineering firms are usually […]
The Appraisal Foundation sets standards and qualifications for appraisers in the US through the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP). It was established in response to the savings and loan crisis of the 1980s and has two independent boards, the Appraisal Standards Board and the Appraisal Qualifications Board. The USPAP is the national standard […]
Building foundations transfer the weight of a structure to the ground and come in various designs. Shallow foundations are used for small to medium-sized homes, while deep foundations are used for larger buildings. Engineers must consider weight, settlement, and scrape when designing foundations, and in colder climates, freeze uplifts must also be accounted for. Whenever […]
The National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) promotes awareness of osteoporosis as a preventable and treatable disease. It is funded by various sources and provides information to the public and healthcare professionals with scientific objectivity. Osteoporosis affects 10 million Americans, with 80% being women, and NOF promotes lifelong bone health principles to prevent it. The National Osteoporosis […]
IT support workers plan to earn ITIL Foundation certification to test their knowledge of best practices in supporting IT. The certification has three steps: learn, register, and write the exam. ITIL is a set of books that provide guidance and standards for managing IT services. There are three levels of ITIL certification: Foundations, Professional, and […]
The ITIL Core Exam is a multiple-choice exam that IT professionals take to become ITIL certified, which is a standard for delivering IT in a best practice environment. Passing the exam certifies knowledge of ITIL concepts, principles, and terms. It is recommended to purchase official books and sample tests for self-study. The certification is an […]
A carpet foundation, also known as a mat foundation, is a shallow foundation made by pouring concrete over a reinforcing carpet of material. It distributes weight close to the surface and is suitable for unstable ground or underground structures. It requires careful design and construction, and is used for residential and commercial construction. A carpet […]
A foundation director is responsible for overall strategy, financial management, legal correspondence, human resources, fundraising, and staying informed of industry developments. They work closely with the board of directors and other managers to ensure the organization operates efficiently. A foundation director is the non-profit equivalent of the CEO of a corporation. The foundation’s director reports […]
Starting a successful foundation requires research, a specific mission, legal compliance, and planning. Research should identify a niche and other organizations supporting the cause. Legal requirements include obtaining a business license and tax-exempt status. A plan for all aspects of the foundation is essential. A foundation is typically a non-profit organization that raises money or […]
The National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) is a non-profit organization that helps people consolidate their debts and avoid bankruptcy. Affiliation with NFCC guarantees working with a non-profit agency, but there is a dispute over how much it will hurt creditworthiness. It is recommended to evaluate multiple debt counseling agencies to find the best deal. […]
The incremental basis method calculates the value of inherited property based on its value at the time of death, reducing capital gains liability. It is not allowed in all regions and individuals should consult with an attorney or accountant. The alternative is a transfer basis, which assumes the value at the time of purchase is […]
Charitable foundations are organizations that help disadvantaged individuals or countries. They have tax benefits and must reinvest profits into their projects. They are not the same as NGOs and non-profit organizations. They are often started with donations and must ensure funds are renewed through fundraising activities. The internet has made it easier for them to […]
The National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) helped direct people to non-profit debt counselors in the 1970s and 1980s. Affiliation with the NFCC gives consumers assurance that their money will be directed towards paying off their debt. However, some criticize the NFCC as an offshoot of the credit industry. Working with an NFCC affiliate shows […]