A slab foundation is a concrete slab that carries building constructions. In contrast, a crawl space foundation creates an open section underneath the building utilized for plumbing and electrical works by having outside concrete walls (and occasionally interior reinforcement walls) that raise the structure 18 inches or more beyond ground level.
If you want to make a good choice between the two foundation types, continue reading to see the differences between the two prominent foundation types; slab and crawl space.
What Is A Crawl Space Foundation?
A crawl space foundation is a type of foundation with concrete walls and a floor that serves as a support for buildings.
What Is A Slab Foundation?
A slab foundation is a thick concrete slab foundation that serves as the base support of a building. They have a thickness of at least 6-inches in the middle and approximately 2 feet around the perimeter.
Points to Consider: Slab Foundation vs. Crawl Space
Here are a few points to use while differentiating between the two foundation types:
Upkeep
Building both types of foundation properly can make it last up to 50 years or more, but crawl space foundations typically require more upkeep to avoid contamination with insects and fungus. Additionally, structural fixes for crawl space walls are more necessary, especially in places with clay-rich soil.
Slab foundations require less upkeep. Slab foundations are sturdier than crawl spaces because they are thick (24 inches against eight-inch walls in a crawl space).
Sustainability
Unless there is a severe flood or pest infestation, crawl space has a smaller lifespan. Hidden leakages can destroy the nearby woodwork, necessitating more regular repairs.
Flood or water cannot compromise a cement slab, but the repair incurred from such situations might include removing and replacing some of the concrete from the foundation.
Reconstruction
In a house with a slab foundation, pipeworks are built into the concrete structure, thus renovating it entails tearing out sections of the slab, which may damage the slab’s overall architectural stability.
More renovation choices are available with crawl space foundations. In a building on a crawl space foundation, the pipeworks underneath can be rearranged.
Weather
Slab foundations can withstand a humid environment.
Slab foundations are water-resistant because of concrete which is its main constituent. Also, a vapor barrier is installed underneath the slab during construction to stop the concrete from soaking soil water and becoming wet. This vapor barrier is made with polyethylene sheets.
It is crucial because, even though concrete is water-resistant, without a shield, it can soak and transmit water through the slab, which could harm the ground above.
Crawl space foundations are preferable for dry climates.
In areas with lots of rainfall, the area inside a crawl space may retain some water, resulting in a damp, humid atmosphere that increases the danger of mold growth and wood decay in wooden beams and subflooring.
Note: Despite the wide use of both types of foundations, each is better appropriate to particular circumstances and environments.
Pros and Cons of a Slab Foundation and a Crawl Space Foundation?
To assist you in deciding which foundation is ideal for your home, below is a list of pros and cons:
Pros of Slab Foundation
- Well suited for humid climates.
- Stops mold from growing in the foundation.
- Highly energy-efficient because it shields your home’s flooring by obstructing the passage of cold air beneath.
- Quicker to build.
- Less expensive to maintain.
- It is robust and durable.
Cons of Slab Foundation
- Break easily when the soil shifts.
- Roots from trees may hurt it.
- Repairs may cost extra money.
- Plumbing fittings and wiring are fixed into the concrete and are therefore not adjustable.
Pros of Crawl Space Foundation
- Detection of pests is faster.
- Functions effectively on sloping sites.
- Preferred in earthquake-prone locations.
- Improves sliding soil.
- Suitable for dry regions.
- A better choice for flood-prone locations.
- Quick access for electrical and pipeworks.
- Alternatives for adaptable renovation.
Cons of Crawl Space Foundation
- Construction requires more time.
- The subfloor and floor beams allow cold to enter the living spaces above.
- Eliminating the infestation of insects, rats, and mold requires extra care.
- Likely to need improvements to the structure.
In Summary
Both slab foundation and crawl space foundation are common home foundation types. Crawl space foundations use lifted concrete walls, while slab foundations are built with hard concrete.
The slab foundation can withstand cold climates. Crawl space foundation, on the other hand, is a good choice for hot regions and homeowners who enjoy routine upgrading.