Shallow Foundations

In cold climate regions, building foundations are required to extend below depths of expected frost penetration. This usually requires construction with basements or crawl space below floor grade. The design concept shown below can be used to construct buildings with frost protected shallow foundations. With this scheme, homes can be built in cold climates with slab on grade support. Wing insulation, as shown, may be required in areas that experience extreme cold temperatures. Frost protected shallow foundations may enable savings in construction and offer additional benefits from energy efficiency. The thickness, density and insulation properties of the geofoam as well as expected extreme frost penetration depths are important considerations. Any portions of geofoam that remain above ground should have protective cover.