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New foundations and slab-on-grade

The first step to Green home design and construction is deciding what sort of base you will rest it on. The Guide pages below help choose between slab-on-grade construction, traditional strip foundations with crawlspace and basement foundations - then show step by step how to build them better. 

Should I put 2" foam board under, around, AND on top of concrete slab?

Posted by Insinuendo Insinuendo Aug. 5, 2022 Slab on Grade 3 responses

Will air heated floors work in a northern climate?

Posted by Matthew holmes March 22, 2022 Slab on Grade 1 response

Can we backfill a basement and then do slab on grade?

Posted by susannahandjared mcisaac March 3, 2022 Slab on Grade 1 response

What maintenance needs to be done on a slab on grade foundation?

Posted by Diane Arsenault March 1, 2022 Slab on Grade 1 response

How do you attach steps to slab on grade insulation?

Posted by Mary Alm Dec. 2, 2021 Slab on Grade 3 responses

What is the best way to build a slab on grade foundation?

Posted by Earl Williams Nov. 30, 2021 Slab on Grade 3 responses

What experience do you have with techno piles?

Posted by Rob DesBaillets Aug. 26, 2021 New foundations and slab-on-grade 3 responses

What is the best way to install slab on grade insulation?

Posted by paul fowler Aug. 26, 2021 Slab on Grade 3 responses

About

New foundations and slab-on-grade

Traditionally in North America, home construction starts with a crawlspace or concrete basement foundation. Depending on the situation there are other options that can be more durable and affordable that will better protect your home air quality and energy efficiency - especially important for LEED, Passive House, ZNE or in the future Net Positive Energy homes.

The first factors to consider when designing the foundation of a home are lot size and soil conditions. When space is limited (with total footprint or height restrictions) a basement foundation may be the best option, but if space allows there is a strong case for avoiding basements altogether with a slab-on-grade foundation design.