Cold Weather Slab | Idaho

Cost and Energy-Efficient Slab Foundations Available in Idaho

Cold weather slab foundations, also known as frost-protected shallow foundations (FPSFs), are an alternative foundation style designed to withstand the harsh winters and freezing temperatures of colder climates in Idaho. They are different from traditional slab foundations in that they do not need to be excavated below the frost line. This is because they use a layer of insulation to prevent the ground underneath the foundation from freezing.

Benefits of FPSFs

There are several benefits to slab foundations, including:

• Cost-effectiveness: FPSFs are typically less expensive to build than traditional slab foundations, as they do not require as much excavation.
• Energy efficiency: FPSF helps reduce energy costs by heating the soil beneath the foundation. The design prevents heat loss from the home and can help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
• Durability: FPSFs are very durable and can withstand the harsh winters of colder climates.
• Reduced risk of foundation problems: FPSFs can help to reduce the risk of foundation problems, such as frost heave, which can occur when the ground below a foundation freezes and expands.
• Faster construction: FPSFs can be constructed more quickly than traditional slab foundations, as there is no need to wait for the ground to thaw before beginning construction.

How FPSFs are Built

FPSFs are built by first excavating a shallow trench around the perimeter of the building. The trench is then filled with a layer of gravel, followed by a layer of insulation. A concrete slab is then poured over the insulation.

The insulation used in FPSFs is typically made of expanded polystyrene (EPS) or extruded polystyrene (XPS). These materials are very effective at preventing heat loss and keeping the ground underneath the foundation warm.

Mono Slab®️ EZ Form: A Superior Method of FPSF Formation

Mono Slab®️ EZ Form is a patented product that allows you to form, insulate, and backfill all before you pour and place concrete when forming FPSF Slab-on-Grade foundations. Mono Slab®️ removes several steps compared to the traditional forming and insulating process.

Mono Slab EZ Form is made of expanded polystyrene (EPS), which is a very effective insulation material. The forms come in 8-foot lengths and a variety of styles for residential, commercial, and arctic foundations and can be used to create foundations of any shape or size. The unique design has a superior R-value which allows it to be used in locations where the extreme freezing temperatures restrict other FPSF methods from being used. 

To use Mono Slab EZ Form, you simply place the forms on the ground and backfill around them with gravel or sand. Once the forms are backfilled, you can pour concrete directly into them.

Advantages of Mono Slab EZ Form over Traditional Methods

Mono Slab EZ Form has a number of advantages over traditional FPSF construction methods, including:

• Speed of installation: You can go from excavation to framing in as little as 3 days as there is no need to strip the forms or install insulation afterwards.
• Cost savings: Mono Slab®️ can save you money on both labor and materials costs.
• Energy efficiency: The EPS forms provide excellent insulation which can help to reduce energy bills.
• Code compliant: Mono Slab®️ EZ form is code-compliant and has an R-rating that exceeds code requirements. 
• Versatility: Mono Slab®️ EZ Form can be used for heated and unheated spaces, garages, driveways and more to create foundations of any shape or size.

If you are considering building a home or commercial property in Idaho, a monolithic slab foundation is a great option and Mono Slab®️ is the superior choice.   

It is faster, more cost-effective, and more versatile than traditional methods. If you are looking for the best way to build a slab foundation, Mono Slab®️ EZ Form is the way to go.

Stop by our YouTube channel to learn more about the installation process and uses. Then visit our website for reseller opportunities and resources such as detailed installation guides, code certificates, pricing guides, and more.