BELOW GRADE APPLICATION

Energy efficiency requirements are continually increasing across all types of buildings. Since uninsulated concrete creates a thermal bridge between a building’s heated interior and the relatively cooler earth surrounding the structure, or through exposed slab edges to the outside air, blocking that heat flow with EPS insulation is critical for creating a comfortable, energy-prudent building

It also helps reduce infiltration of Radon gas, a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas that is the second leading cause of lung cancer. This application provides a continuous, air-impermeable, water-resistant layer of insulation around the entire perimeter of the building. Another benefit is that spray foam will penetrate the crushed stone sub-base by about ½ inch. When applied the foam is liquid and will fill and penetrate the gravel to seal voids and gaps.

In some areas there will be more foam accumulation and the effective insulation value will therefore be increased. The result is a very compact assembly with no air space between the insulation and the crushed stone sub-base, reducing the likelihood of foam cracking when walked upon.