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.
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New foundations and slab-on-grade
Welcome to our discussion forum on New Foundations and Slab-on-Grade construction! Choosing the right foundation is one of the most important decisions when building a new, sustainable home. This is the place to share your questions, personal experiences, and professional advice on the pros and cons of different foundation types, with a special focus on modern slab-on-grade designs.
Whether you're a homeowner planning a build, an architect designing a high-performance house, or a builder with hands-on experience, your perspective is valuable. Join the conversation and connect with others from the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand to explore the best foundation strategies for creating durable, efficient, and healthy homes.
Slab-on-Grade vs. Basement: Which Did You Choose and Why?
Are you in the process of deciding between a traditional basement or a modern slab-on-grade foundation for your new home? What factors are influencing your decision, such as climate, soil type, budget, or performance goals like Passive House or Net Zero Energy? Share your decision-making process, ask for community input, and learn from the real-world experiences of others who have faced the same choice. We also have Canada's and the USA's most comprehensive high performance and sustainable prefabricated and modular homes directory available here, searchable by Province or State, as well as the largest online directory of green construction contractors here on EcoHome.
Ask About Slab Insulation and Moisture Protection
Do you have specific questions about the best practices for insulating a slab-on-grade foundation to prevent heat loss and ensure comfortable floors? Are you looking for advice on choosing the right type and thickness of sub-slab rigid foam insulation, or on the proper installation of a vapor barrier to protect against ground moisture? Post your technical questions here to get answers from experienced builders and building science enthusiasts.
Share Your High-Performance Foundation Building Experiences
Have you built a home with a high-performance foundation, such as a frost-protected shallow foundation (FPSF) or a fully insulated monolithic slab? What challenges did you face, and what tips can you offer for achieving excellent airtightness and thermal performance at the foundation level? Your project stories and photos can provide valuable inspiration and practical guidance for others aiming to build resilient, energy-efficient homes from the ground up.