PRACTICES

10.1 FOUNDATIONS
Figure 2.27 is an effective means providing a dry slab that is also insulated with rigid
insulation (FOAMULAR XPS Insulation) where the insulation does not act as an insect entry
point. A protective membrane strip is used to create a physical barrier to the entry of insects
into the building enclosure. Fully-adhered membranes are effective means of insect control.
Ground treatment is also recommended.

Unfaced cavity insulation

Wood or fiber cement siding (PROPINK EcoTouch
PINK FIBERGLAS
Furring or spacer strip
Insulation or PROPINK
Exterior rigid insulation L77 Loosefill Insulation)
(FOAMULAR XPS) with
joints taped/sealed with Gypsum board
JointSealR Foam Joint Tape Sill gasket (FoamSealR
Sill Plate Gasket)
EnergyComplete Sealant
Masticed membrane strip
Rodent protection for
Concrete slab
continuous rigid insulation
Polyethylene vapor barrier
Figure 2.27: For insect protection provide
3'-0" of mulch and then
Insulated dry slab on drought-resistant plants
grade construction.
Granular capillary break
Ground slopes away and drainage pad
from wall at 5% (no fines)
(6 in. per 10 ft.)
Rigid insulation
(FOAMULAR XPS)
Concrete foundation wall as bond break material

Rigid insulation
(FOAMULAR XPS)
Concrete footing below
frost depth

Crawlspaces are typically constructed as vented crawlspaces. Figure 2.28 is an example

of recommended vented crawlspace construction. Note the continuous rigid insulation
(FOAMULAR XPS Insulation) on the underside of the floor framing. This rigid insulations
primary function is to protect the floor assembly from moisture. The rigid insulation should
be protected with protection board from fire, insects and vermin. Note that the floor cavity
insulation (PROPINK EcoTouch PINK FIBERGLAS Batt Insulation only) is located in
direct contact with the continuous rigid insulation leaving and air space above the cavity
insulation. The air space results in a more comfortable floor. It is key with this approach to
prevent air entry into the perimeter of the floor framing.

Unvented crawlspaces should be only considered where flooding is not a concern.

Figure 2.29 and Figure 2.30 are recommended approaches to constructing conditioned
crawlspaces. Note the protection board on the rigid insulation (FOAMULAR XPS Insulation)
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