21 Nov 2009, Posted by Shawn in Live Work, 5 Comments, Short-URL:http://portlandbuilt.com/gk4wm
Live/Work Update: Slab Insulation
Over the last few days the concrete crew has been hard at work putting in place our under-slab insulation. The pink board (also known as extruded polystyrene or EPS) serves several important purposes. First, it’s a barrier between the slab and the ground, minimizing heat loss. Since we’re using a radiant hydronic heating system, it’s critical that we insulate to prevent heating the earth.
In addition to serving as an insulator, the pink board also acts as a water vapor and moisture barrier. In Portland, water is a BIG deal, so it’s critical we do everything possible to limit the amount of moisture entering the structure.
Our strategy for insulating the slab involved 2 layers of foam, staggered so that the seams don’t overlap. Our theory here is that by overlapping the panels (and using a sheet of plastic underneath) we’ll dramatically reduce the path for moisture to enter the slab. Our total R-value for the insulation is around R15 (a layer of 2″ foam and a layer of 1″ foam).
In the photo above, you can also see the slab rebar, as well as the rough-ins for our plumbing. We passed our plumbing inspection (yeah!) and are setting up to pour on November 25th (weather permitting). Take a look at the gallery to see more photos from the recent concrete pour and plumbing rough in.
Also, for a more detailed post on why wee weent with 3″ of insultation, check out this post.
5 Comments
November 21, 2009 7:57 pm
Patti
Whoa! This is really coming along! Can’t wait to see this project progress. We check in often.
November 23 2009 00:48 am
Shawn
Thanks again! Feel free to pass the word along via email, Facebook, etc. The more who know about the site, the better!
November 25, 2009 11:50 am
destin Young
Wow nice really moving along!
Love the new site roll out as well!
Looks great!
November 25 2009 12:03 pm
Shawn
Thanks, Destin. Please share it with friends!
January 30, 2010 5:45 am
Roofing Insulation
When we added 500 sq ft to our home we added the insulation. So between teh old home and the new addition, there was a huge difference in temperature, so we ended up adding insulation to the whole house and actually saved the very first year.
Posting your comment...
Leave A Comment