Differences Between Slab vs Crawl Space Foundation

The foundation is the part of any building that bears the building’s load and supports the walls, floors, and other structural elements. So even though choosing the right foundation for your new home may not be at the top of your list, it’s a very important decision.

The choice between a home with a slab foundation and one with a crawl space foundation can have a significant impact on the property’s upkeep, which is something every property owner should be aware of. When you decide on the kind of foundation you are going to use. You must consider environmental factors like geography, local climate, and soil characteristics. Since some foundation types are more expensive than others, the budget also has a big impact.

In this article, we at Granite Foundation Repair, will compare concrete slab and crawl spaces foundations in-depth to assist you in determining which is better for you.

Defining Crawl Space Foundation

A crawl space foundation features concrete walls and a floor. After the home is set, access to this area is provided by walls that are approximately 18 inches above the ground. Typically, plumbing and other fittings are located here.

A crawl space foundation consists of a flat concrete slab that is surrounded by concrete walls, occasionally wooden walls, and footers. They are wide enough for a person to climb through to solve any issues below.

Defining a Slab Foundation

A slab foundation is a substantial concrete block that serves as the home’s sturdy foundation. All plumbing is installed inside the slab or above it, and there is no access below it. A slab foundation must be extremely level, with a minimum thickness of six inches in the middle.

Distinctions of Each Foundation

There are many distinctions that separate crawl space and slab foundations. Each of these distinctions comes with its own benefits and drawbacks.

Moisture Content

Moisture can damage foundations. So, you must ensure that your build takes this into account. Even though it can be slippery when moisture gets through, a slab foundation is far superior in this situation as crawl space foundations are often dirty and difficult to navigate.  

Moisture Resistance

In a slab foundation, water is prevented from entering homes by a waterproofing barrier. This resists any accumulating moisture but is not the best for houses in flood zones.

But with crawl space foundations, high elevation and securely anchored footings provide protection from rising water or heavy rain. But mold and wood rot can result from any trapped water and moisture.

Regarding Sloped Lots

Given the shallow pilings and excavation required for slab foundations, almost all professionals do not advise slabs in sloped lots.

In this case, crawl spaces are a superior alternative to installing structures and footers into slopes without the necessity of extensive excavation in a sloped property.

Maintenance

Much more upkeep is required for crawl spaces than for slab foundations. In crawl spaces, you need to check that everything is working properly once every two to three months. To avoid mold growth, mildew, and wood rot in crawl areas, regular inspection and encapsulation are necessary. They also need routine inspections for insects and rodents.

Winters 

It’s crucial to take winters into account when using a slab foundation as they are susceptible to cracking in extremely cold weather. But they also heat more effectively.

Crawl space foundations have no drawbacks during winter as long as the home is protected overall.

Earthquake Planning

In an earthquake-prone area, building a house on a concrete slab is risky as the ground can shift during an earthquake and cause slabs to easily shatter. Homes may suffer permanent damage from cracks.

Due to their flexibility and resilience, crawl spaces are a preferable alternative for homes situated in earthquake-prone areas.

Pest Control

Before laying the slab foundation, exterminators should treat the area for bug control. But termites can enter homes when experts install external insulation, and the smaller bugs have better access due to the reduced proximity to the ground.

But rodents and other insects that enter a crawl space can eat through the insulation. Crawl space areas make it simple to check for pests. In comparison to a low slab, termites and other pests must work harder to enter a higher subfloor.

Storage      

Space for storage is not available with slab foundations. Most slabs are low to the ground, so there isn’t enough room for any use.

Crawl spaces offer few options for small- and moderate-sized storage. Items should only be kept in enclosed crawl places. If not, pests and moisture intrusion may harm your storage items.

Bottom Line

If you think your foundation might be in danger. Before any deterioration can progress, it should be inspected by a professional. The early detection of concrete foundation issues might help you save a considerable amount of time and money.

Granite Foundation Repair offers skilled foundation repair contractors serving Dallas when you give us a call. Before providing you with a task evaluation and free quotation of the repair work, we will do a comprehensive foundation examination.

Our Dallas foundation company will offer you a great service that is cost-effective should your property require foundation repair work by our experienced structural professionals.