When planning a tension fabric structure, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right foundation. Fabric buildings foundations are not one-size-fits-all—their performance, durability, and cost-efficiency depend largely on the foundation system you select.
The ideal foundation type depends on several factors, including soil conditions, intended use, mobility, and budget. Below, we explore the most common foundation options used for fabric buildings.
Shallow Floating Foundation / Strip Footing
This is one of the most common and economical fabric buildings foundations. It uses continuous concrete footings beneath the sidewalls to distribute the load across a broader area, making it ideal for compacted soil and lighter structures.
Best for: Temporary or seasonal agricultural structures, storage buildings, and workshops.
Deep Foundation
For poor soil conditions or heavy-load structures, deep foundations use piles or caissons driven into the ground to reach stable layers. These are more complex but offer unmatched stability.
Best for: Permanent installations on unstable or flood-prone sites.
Concrete Slab Foundation
A concrete slab acts both as the floor and the foundation. It provides a clean, sealed surface that is ideal for operations requiring cleanliness or forklift access.
Best for: Garages, industrial buildings, commercial storage facilities.
Concrete Block Foundation
Precast concrete blocks are a fast, affordable solution that requires minimal site preparation. This foundation allows for mobility and flexibility.
Best for: Temporary or relocatable structures, especially when ground anchoring isn’t possible.
Grade Beam / Concrete Beam on Soil
Grade beams sit on the surface or shallow footings and link anchoring points, distributing structural loads evenly. A great middle ground between shallow and deep foundations.
Best for: Semi-permanent buildings in areas with stable soil.
Round Concrete Pier Foundation
Concrete piers are poured into drilled holes to form vertical supports under key load points. They’re durable, frost-resistant, and minimize surface disruption.
Best for: Agricultural structures, sloped or uneven terrain, and cold climates.
Concrete Beam Foundation / Longrines
These horizontal beams rest on piers or soil to provide linear support and simplify the installation process. They are ideal for large modular fabric structures.
Best for: Industrial applications or variable ground conditions.
Why the Right Foundation Matters
Investing in the proper fabric buildings foundations ensures structural integrity, protects your investment, and supports your building’s long-term performance. Whether you’re building for agricultural, commercial, or industrial use, Harnois offers engineered foundation solutions tailored to your specific project needs.
Not sure which foundation is right for you?
Contact our team for a custom recommendation based on your site, structure type, and usage goals.