Parsways Structural Engineering Blog

Foundation walls are critical structural elements in residential and commercial construction across Ontario. In addition to transferring vertical loads from the superstructure, they must safely resist lateral forces from soil, groundwater, and seismic effects . The distinction between laterally supported  and laterally unsupported foundation walls  directly affects wall thickness, reinforcement requirements, and overall code compliance under the Ontario Building Code (OBC). P

For homeowners, builders, and engineers in Ontario, steel decking in suspended slabs offers a durable, efficient, and structurally advanced solution. By combining galvanized steel profiles with reinforced concrete, projects achieve faster timelines, improved safety, and long-term performance, essential for modern housing across Ontario.

Tall walls—walls taller than the usual limits in Ontario—require careful engineering. These walls are commonly used in modern homes, commercial spaces, and industrial buildings, and must safely resist both gravity and lateral forces.