FOUNDATIONS

The foundation is the most structurally important element of any building, and can be a major factor in interior air quality and occupant comfort. Unfortunately, the foundation, and other sub-grade spaces are often the most ignored by architects, designers, and builders. Foundations are usually poorly damp-proofed and poorly insulated. In an otherwise well constructed green home or remodeling project, the foundation often becomes the most significant source of energy loss and interior moisture accumulation. Above-grade portions of a building can be easily altered or upgraded, but foundations, because of the fact that they are below grade, are much more difficult to alter or upgrade. If the foundation is constructed without consideration of its thermal and moisture performance, the building will perform poorly throughout its lifetime. A properly constructed foundation can nearly eliminate these thermal and moisture problems.

What Makes Foundations Green?

Moisture and Mold Control
Thermal Performance
Structural Soundness

5 Considerations for Consumers:

1. Foundations, including concrete slabs, should be insulated to reduce heating and cooling loads
2. Control radon by sealing cracks, house pressurization, natural ventilation, heat recovery ventilation, or installation of a radon mitigation system
3. Control mold and mildew through structural integrity and moisture control measures such as moisture-proof coatings and perimeter drains
4. Raise crawl space height to 24 inches to make access easier and include the crawl space in the conditioned space of the house
5. Plan ahead for a structural sound basement as it relates to safety – tornadoes, etc.