Very shallow grade beam on micro piles in cold climate
Very shallow grade beam on micro piles in cold climate
(OP)
Project is a wood framed structure in a cold climate. Due to subterrainian constraints and environmental considerations, we cannot excavate a continuous footing to 42" frost depth. Proposed detail is to provide a 12"hx22"w grade beam supported on micropiles (depth to be determined.)
The proposed grade beam would penetrate the existing grade by 1 to 2" inches. The building slab would dowel into the grade beam.
Question is, do we insulate under the slab or allow the heat from the building to prevent the soil below from freezing?
The proposed grade beam would penetrate the existing grade by 1 to 2" inches. The building slab would dowel into the grade beam.
Question is, do we insulate under the slab or allow the heat from the building to prevent the soil below from freezing?





RE: Very shallow grade beam on micro piles in cold climate
RE: Very shallow grade beam on micro piles in cold climate
RE: Very shallow grade beam on micro piles in cold climate
There are also essentially styrofoam blocks that would also work. I can't remember any names but they come in various sizes and densities.
RE: Very shallow grade beam on micro piles in cold climate
There are a couple of plastic void forms that I use. I typically use a product called 'Frost Cushion' by Beaver plastics. There is another product that I've only used on a couple of projects, I'll dig up the name... BARetired has referenced it a couple of times, but will dig up the product.
Dik
RE: Very shallow grade beam on micro piles in cold climate
A common thickness is 1-1/2", but it comes in thicker sheets. I'd not use it under a grade beam.
This along with void form ought to be belt and suspenders.
RE: Very shallow grade beam on micro piles in cold climate
Remember that grade beam is a good conductor of cold (reverse heat).
RE: Very shallow grade beam on micro piles in cold climate
Dik