Frost-protected shallow foundation

Also found in: Financial.

Frost-protected shallow foundation

A foundation system in which foam insulation is placed around the perimeter of a foundation to reduce heat loss through the slab and/or below-grade walls, subsequently raising the frost depth of a building and allowing foundations to be as shallow as 16 inches below grade.

References in periodicals archive ?

Frost-protected shallow foundations provide a third alternative.

Home sweet home: keep it simple with energy-efficient home construction

One of the most promising techniques, the NAHB says, is "frost-protected shallow foundations." This technique allows builders in cold climates to start foundations 12 inches below grade instead of at a frost line that may be 3,4 or 5 feet deep.

Green grows. (NAHB Briefs)

The NAHB Research Center coordinated the projects; the results are published in a report tided "Substantiating Data and Information for Frost-Protected Shallow Foundations," along with the "Design Guide for Frost-Protected Shallow Foundations."

Saving with shallow foundations

The Council of American Building Officials has opened the door to frost-protected shallow foundations, a decision that could trim housing costs in some markets as much as $2,500 a house, according to NAHB.