Posts Tagged ‘build’


Pros and Cons of Crawl, Slab and Conditioned Foundations

Friday, January 25th, 2013

Crawl Space

Slab

Conditioned

Cost to Build

Not much more expensive than slab.    Less expensive than conditioned. Some savings over Crawl.  Much   less than conditioned.  Leaves little   room for error.  Proper planning and   installation is critical.  Save some   cost on less brick and block. More expensive

Energy Efficiency

Least efficient of the three Cold floors may need radiant heat More Energy efficient

Cost to Maintain

Looses the most heat and air.    Easy access to maintain or remodel. Limited if properly installed.  MUST have experienced licensed reputable plumber with experience   installing in slab. Ongoing added cost to condition under the house

Ease of Repairs

Easy to access pipes, vents and sub structures.  Can put HVAC air handler and ductwork below   floor. Repairs are costly.  Pipe leak will require you to jackhammer the concrete slab to assess and repair the problem Easy to access pipes, vents and sub structures

Other Pros

Easy access to pipes and sub structures.  Gets the house off the ground in termite   prone areas. Quickest to build. Rodents and Pests do NOT live under a Slab.  Good subfloor for tile. Keeps out bugs, rodents and moisture that causes mold and mildew.

Other Cons

Moisture, Mold, Mildew Pests Hard floors will be cold. Harder on feet, knees, joints, back.