Time is money. The faster a builder can construct homes, the greater the profits. So it's important to keep construction projects on schedule and minimize delays. For this reason, it's tempting to rush the slab-on-grade construction process, but the results can be costly. Unlike some other components in the home, such as drywall and paint, defects in the foundation can be costly to repair after construction. That's why you have to install a slab-on-grade foundation right the first time. There's just no substitute for installing the right preslab materials, giving careful attention to the concrete mixture, and making sure the concrete cures properly.
While it's important to keep construction projects on schedule and minimize delays, rushing the slab-on-grade construction process can be costly. Unlike some other components in the home, such as drywall and paint, defects in the foundation are difficult and expensive to repair after construction. That's why you have to install a slab-on-grade foundation right the first time. There's just no substitute for installing the right foundation materials, giving careful attention to the concrete mixture, and making sure the slab foundation cures properly.
Concrete Placement
Even if the concrete is properly mixed in the truck, the aggregate and sand can clump after the mix is poured into the foundation formwork. Once the concrete is poured from the concrete chute into the formwork, the foundation crew has to combine, or consolidate, the aggregate, sand, cement, and water. The aggregate and sand have to be distributed evenly throughout the slab, not only in the center of the slab, but also in the grade beams, edges, and corners.
Insulation
To prevent cold floors and prevent heat loss and heat gain through the slab, insulation is installed on the vertical edge around the slab perimeter. During colder months, slab insulation helps to keep homeowners comfortable and heating bills low. During warmer months, insulation helps to control air conditioning costs.
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