When to backfill?

[98softail]

The concrete contractor just finished stripping the forms. I asked the "boss" how soon I can backfill. He said 1-2 weeks. Other places I have read 14 days and others have said after the 1st floor deck is done.

What about placing 2x6 bracing against the walls? I have seen big developments backfilling within a week of dampproofing. I want to have things scheduled so there isn't deliveries of lumber in the way of the excavator.

I want to do this right to minimize any cracking or damage to the poured walls.

Thanks again for your help.
Mike

[mjpliv]

My preference has always been to wait a minimum of 14 days. If the floor has been poured and the first floor deck is in place (including plywood) then I would consider back filling in a 7-10 day window. Its not worth rushing it!

[Rich]

Is it a full basement or just a stemwall? If it's a basement I would wait until the first floor is framed (floor only - not walls).

[Tom R]

Around my way, Jersey, it's code, you can't backfill 'til your floor framing is in.

[98softail]

thanks everyone!

I am going to wait about 2 weeks to backfill. The beams will be set and the first floor deck will be done by then.

I appreciate your comments.

mike

[kramer]

What about backfilling of frost walls? Can that be done sooner, since it gets filled on both sides?

[Rich]

Yes - as long as it's brought up on both sides equally and compacted well.

[kramer]

If the footers for frost walls are 4+ feet below slab level, they don't need drain tile, right?

[Rich]

It depends.. if they are interior of the foundation wall (which I assume they are) then no they don't require drain tile/pipe etc.

[kramer]

I am referring to the back frost walls of a walkout. They would be part of the perimeter foundation.

[Rich]

I would put a perimeter drain in that instance..