ᐅ Insulation of the Ground Slab: Yes or No?

Created on: 17 Oct 2011 10:34
K
katinka
Hello everyone,

We are planning to build a single-family house in spring 2012 (KfW 70; underfloor heating with district heating) with about 140 m² (1507 sq ft) of living space. External dimensions: 9 m x 11.20 m (30 ft x 37 ft).

Currently, we are wondering whether we should insulate the concrete slab. What do you think? Is it advisable? How much does such insulation typically cost?

Do you have any tips regarding this?

Thanks and best regards from the Rhineland,
Katinka
T
T.H.
19 Oct 2011 19:28
Conclusion: Having a well-insulated concrete slab always provides security. Even if many providers try to discourage you, don’t be influenced—later improvements in this area are not possible.

A good insulation of the concrete slab offers two advantages:
- On one hand, it reduces energy consumption by preventing heat loss.
- On the other hand, it increases comfort through a pleasant, even floor temperature, especially along the edges near the exterior components where cold drafts are eliminated.

Best regards

T.H.
T
Tatze
20 Oct 2011 19:50
Hello,

Our architect told us the following in response to our question about how the subsoil and foundation slab will be constructed:
1. Approximately 30-40 cm (12-16 inches) of gravel layer
2. 8.0 cm (3 inches) of perimeter insulation
3. Vapor barrier
4. 20-25 cm (8-10 inches) foundation slab made of waterproof concrete (depending on soil conditions)

Can someone tell me if this is a common and reasonable construction method
(assuming that the soil report confirms stable ground without shallow water layers)?
Am I correct in understanding that the perimeter insulation beneath the foundation slab counts as additional insulation, since the "minimum insulation" for the slab is usually installed between the slab and the screed? What types of insulation materials are typically used between the foundation slab and the screed?

Thanks in advance!

Best regards
Tatze
€uro
21 Oct 2011 06:57
Hello,
krausf3 schrieb:
...The architect said that with additional insulation of the floor slab, you can achieve KfW 55 standard. But the cost of this additional insulation does not justify the benefit from the repayment subsidy.
No reasonable planner would consider achieving the improvement from KfW EH70 to 55 solely by insulating the floor slab! Usually, other measures are required.

As a rule, the minimum requirements for the reference building (0.35 W/m²K) must be met.
Whether further "additional" insulation is economically sensible can be calculated — this refers to energy optimization. Often, the floor slab only accounts for a small portion of the total heat losses. In that case, improvements should rather be made elsewhere.
General statements are rarely helpful here!

Best regards.