The slab edge has the most exposure and the greatest heat loss because it is exposed to the outside, making it a thermal bridge. Be sure to choose boards with adequate compressive strength. Rockwool boards come in several densities. Type IX EPS has the structural capacity to be placed below footings. Expanded polystyrene is also acceptable if it has sufficient compressive strength for the application. ft.) is waterproof and can be installed below grade. Most builders choose extruded polystyrene (blue or pink) for below grade applications because it is widely promoted. Be sure to place insulation under the entire slab including the footing. The insulation R-Value for your specific climate should be optimized through energy modeling (link to Energy Modeling document). This may leave a significant thermal bridge through highly-conductive concrete exposed to the outside or the soil near the perimeter.įor high-performance homes in cold climates, aim for insulating values between R-40 and R-50, which would require 6 to 10 inch thick insulation, depending on the material used. While standard building codes typically require insulating value ranging from R-10 to R-15 detailing around the perimeter is generally weak. Materials suitable for below grade insulation are limited to rigid foam, high-density spray foam and rockwool boards. Insulating a slab-on-grade can be expensive.
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