Most homeowners meet this decision once, usually while planning an ADU or an addition. Here's what separates the two.
Slab-on-grade
The floor and the foundation are one poured element with thickened edges. It's efficient, common in valley construction, and works well on level, well-drained ground.
Footings and stem walls
Footings carry the load into the soil with walls built up to the floor structure. This suits sloped lots, raised floors, and situations where the ground under the structure varies.
What actually decides it
Your plans, your soil, your slope, and your jurisdiction. It's an engineering call more than a preference — and we'd rather explain what your plan calls for than sell you the pour we'd prefer to do.
Drainage either way
Both fail the same way: water. Grading and drainage are part of the scope regardless of which foundation type your project uses.
The short version
Your plan set answers this. If you don't have one yet, that's the next step before any pour.
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