An Introduction to Foundations in Areas of Significant Frost Penetration

Areas of significant frost penetration may be defined as those in which freezing temperatures occur in the ground to sufficient depth to be a significant factor in foundation design. These areas may be further characterized as seasonal frost and permafrost zones. Freeze-thaw temperature changes can exert major and potentially destructive forces on the foundations of structures. This publication discusses planning, design and construction methods for buildings and other infrastructure that can mitigate these forces in areas of significant frost penetration.