Are you thinking about constructing a new home or adding an extension? If that’s the case, you’ve probably heard of slab or slab-on-grade foundations. But are these terms interchangeable, or do they refer to different things? It’s time to find out.
In this article, we’ll tell you what a slab foundation is, whether there’s any difference between a slab and slab on grade foundation and more.
What Are Slab Foundations?
Regarding home construction, a slab foundation, also called “slab on grade,” is a solid monolithic slab of concrete that experts pour directly onto the soil. It serves as the base for your home or any structure. Some individuals refer to slab foundations as “floating slabs” or “concrete slabs, and they can be simple slabs on the soil or include shallow footings for extra stability.
Slab foundations are popular for their affordability and quick installation process, making them a preferred choice for residential buildings in areas with mild climates where ground freezing is not a concern.
Furthermore, slab foundations offer a low-profile design and minimize the need for ramps and steps—thus, they are very accessible.
Are Slab Foundations And Slab On Grade Foundations The Same Thing?
Yes, the terms slab or slab on grade refer to the same foundation type. The term choice typically depends on the speaker’s preferences or the context in which it’s used.
How Much Does It Cost To Install A Slab On Grade Foundation?
The exact price may vary, but typically the price for a slab-on-grade foundation is around $6 per square foot, but it can range anywhere from $4 to $8. The cost of slab foundation installation will depend on several factors the location, the soil conditions, and the requirements of your project.
When Is A Slab On Grade Foundation Useful?
Slab-on-grade foundations are perfect for moderate and warm climates where frost-heave risks are minimal. Frost heave happens when the ground freezes and thaws, resulting in the expansion and contraction of the soil, possibly damaging the foundation.
Here are the three key benefits of slab-on-grade foundations.
- Cost-effective: Slab foundations are more affordable than crawl space or full basement foundations.
- Energy efficient: Compared to crawl spaces, slab foundations reduce air infiltration, saving you money on cooling and heating bills.
- Pest resistant: Unlike raised foundations, slab-on-grade foundations have less space for pests to invade.
In addition, slab-on-grade foundations are easy and quick to install, which means that your project will be completed sooner. Also, slab-on-grade foundations don’t require excavation or extra space, so they are lighter on your wallet.
If you want a quality foundation that’s simple to build, budget-friendly, and minimal maintenance, slab-on-grade is an excellent option.
Three Main Slab Foundation Types To Consider
Before opting for a slab-on-grade foundation, learn about the available types.
These include slab foundations with shallow footings, traditional slab-on-grade foundations, and frost-protected slab foundations.
Slab Foundations With Shallow Footings
A T-shaped slab foundation with shallow footings supports and protects against shifting during cooler weather.
Experts typically place these footings below the frost line to prevent frost heave. The unique design of T-shaped foundations helps with stability, especially in regions with fluctuating temperatures.
Traditional Slab On Grade Foundations
Traditional slab-on-grade foundations are great for warmer climates; building them is relatively cost-effective and easy.
Frost-Protected Slab Foundations
Frost-protected slab foundations are suitable for regions with colder climates. These foundations include insulating foam polystyrene sheets that protect the slab from frost heave. The extra insulation assists with maintaining the foundation’s integrity in freezing conditions.
What Are The Drawbacks Of Slab On Grade Foundations?
Nothing is perfect, including slab-on-grade foundations. Here are some potential drawbacks to consider before saying “yes” to this foundation type.
- Slab-on-grade foundations are unsuitable for cooler climates: Slab foundations aren’t as practical in regions with severe frost heave.
- Slab-on-grade foundations can be expensive to repair: While the estimated cost for installing and maintaining a slab foundation is relatively cost-effective, repairs tend to be costly. Plumbing repairs are usually challenging as the pipes often run through the concrete.
- Slab-on-grade foundations don’t offer extra storage space: Unlike crawl space and basements, slab foundations don’t offer additional storage for your belongings.
Slab On Grade And Differential Settlement Issues
Differential settlement is another frequent problem with slab foundations.
This happens when the foundation unevenly settles into the ground. As a result of the added foundation stress due to differential settlement, you may deal with foundation cracks and possible stability issues with the structure.
What causes differential settlement? Things such as soil prone to erosion, expansive soil, and seismic events can lead to differential settlement. That being said, not all slab-on-grade foundations experience this phenomenon.
Slab On Grade Vs. Other Types Of Foundations
While slab-on-grade foundations are one of the most affordable and easiest to build, they are outshined by basements, crawl spaces, and pier and beam foundations in some situations.
Pier And Beam Foundations
Pier and beam foundations are relatively affordable and a fantastic choice for areas prone to flooding. They require minimal ground preparation and provide easy access to electrical and plumbing systems. However, in humid climates, moisture can be a major problem.
Crawl Space Foundations
Crawl space foundations offer potential storage space and room for utilities like electrical wiring, plumbing, and HVAC systems. On the downside, crawl space foundations are usually expensive to build compared to slab-on-grade foundations, and they may be prone to pest infestations if not properly sealed.
Basement Foundations
Basement foundations provide additional storage and living space, so they are a versatile option for any homeowner. Basement foundations are also ideal for cooler climates, as they offer extra insulation from the ground, helping keep homes warmer. However, proper drainage systems and waterproofing are necessary for avid moisture build-up, which can lead to mildew and mold growth, and structural damage.
Regional Foundation And Crawl Space Repair: This Is How We Can Help You
If you’re looking for trustworthy foundation repair services in North Carolina, contact Regional Foundation and Crawl Space Repair.
We help keep your crawl space or basement dry, safeguard your biggest asset, restore your foundation, and level uneven floors and concrete.
Regional Foundation and Crawl Space Repair offers expert foundation repair, basement wall repair, basement waterproofing, concrete leveling, crawl space encapsulation, crawl space repair, and concrete resurfacing.
Your satisfaction is our top priority!
Regional Foundation and Crawl Space Repair serves areas throughout North Carolina, including major cities like Raleigh, Durham, Greenville, Fayetteville, Greensboro, Wilmington, Tarboro, Creedmoor, Wake Forest, Washington, Rocky Mount, Hillsborough, Chapel Hill, Apex, and all in between.
Seek Out Professional Help Today
Do you suspect your foundation might have a problem? Contact Regional Foundation and Crawl Space Repair and get a free estimate now. Call 919-343-5482 for more info. We’re always happy to help!
