concrete runners or blocks

[gena]

was wondering about using runners or concrete blocks. Our dealer said runners aren't really necessary if you use plenty of blocks. Opinions please.

[rmurray]

Sorry your post was so long getting posted..but the web master has to filter all posts to be able to delete the SPAM before it gets on the boards....You would be surprised how many junk posts he deletes...

To answer your question....Get the set up manual for your individual home...The dealer must give it to you when you close your paperwork..That manual will have specific requirements for the set up for your home....Most likely it require a soil compression test be done to get the info needed to design the proper foundation supports..Blocks should always be placed exactly as the set up manual calls for...Poured runners are not necessary in most cases...but almost always some type of footer under the piers is...Read your manual to be sure your dealer is professional and builds the foundation required for your home...

We use the installation of footers as a chance to remove all organic materials from under the home and grade the property properly to make sure water runs away from the home and NOT under the home..This gets the ground ready for the vapor barrier..Which all builders recommend or require..

[Roy T. Bonney]

Your,re comparing apples to oranges. Runners are concrete footings poured in the ground perpendicular to the "I" beams and upon which the blocks are then placed. Runners would be comparable with poured in place individual footings. Runners are great, but thought must be utilized to make sure that the marriage line column support blocking that is necessary then falls exactly where the runners are placed. Individual footings allow for the exact placement with little planning. Both are good systems, but as previously stated, this is all addressed in the manufacturer's installation manual provided with the home.