The base is the lower part of the structure. Decoration of the socle is an important moment in the construction, but before proceeding with these works, it is necessary to understand some features that directly concern the purpose of this element of the structure. The plinth is only to some extent regarded as an element of the decor, which is the upper part of the foundation, it is subject to the maximum share of environmental impact. Influence on the basement of all kinds of precipitation (rain, snow) influences not only groundwater, but also water from floods, and even the temperature difference between ground and air is also important for it. So again I repeat: the finish of the socle is only to some extent an element of the decor, its main task is to protect the socle from the impact of the environment. The humidity and temperature in your home, and the length of its service life, directly depends on the general condition of the socle.
Often, the protective work of the socle is carried out at the final stage of building the structure, such actions can be called wrong. Finishing the basement should be done immediately after the foundation. Immediately, waterproofing of the plinth, its plastering and, of course, finishing should be performed.
Before proceeding to the lining of the plinth, it is necessary to make a so-called drainage cushion along the entire perimeter of the structure, which is a small depression (15-20 cm in depth and 50 cm in width) and serves to improve water drainage from the foundation.
The next stage of preparatory work for finishing the socle is its plastering. As a rule, a mixture of cement and lime is used for this type of work . To improve the strength of the entire structure, it is possible to sew a foundation with a socle with a reinforcing mesh. In order to provide additional waterproofing, it is possible to apply in a plaster solution which is used for finishing a socle, a plasticizer, such as river sand.
All of the above recommendations should be observed, as neglecting them often leads to undesirable consequences. For example, due to improperly executed waterproofing or the use of poor quality for this material, a significant deterioration in the properties of the foundation and the basement is possible. The plaster can peel off, and the waterproofing can pass water.
Choosing the material for decoration, it is better to stop on natural materials that have good waterproofing and have high strength. A good option is to finish the socle with a stone, it can be both marine and river natural stones. Today's building materials market offers a large selection of materials for this type of work. But for the sake of justice, I want to say that there is no point in using expensive materials for this. The finish of the socle will also be of high quality if you use relatively inexpensive materials, such as tiles or siding. By the way, socle siding differs from its usual thickness and weight, it is more weighty and much thicker.