Slab edge insulation improves insulation by preventing thermal bridging, where heat or cold travels through an uninsulated concrete slab and foundation. By creating a thermal barrier, slab edge insulation keeps the heat in your home during winter and the cool air in during summer, thereby enhancing the overall energy efficiency and comfort of the building’s structure. This is especially important because a significant portion of heat loss from a slab can occur through its uninsulated edges.
How it works
• Forms a thermal barrier:Slab edge insulation is installed vertically around the perimeter of the concrete slab, extending from the base of the slab to ground level.
• Blocks thermal bridges:This barrier prevents heat from the interior of the house from escaping through the slab edges and transferring to the colder outside environment, or vice versa.
• Regulates temperature:By controlling heat flow, it helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature.
• Reduces energy use:Less heat loss means your heating and cooling systems don’t have to work as hard to maintain comfortable temperatures, which lowers energy consumption.
Benefits for overall wall insulation
• Completes the thermal envelope:A slab with uninsulated edges acts as a conduit for heat, similar to an uninsulated wall. Slab edge insulation completes the building’s thermal envelope by providing a continuous insulation layer around the entire foundation perimeter, preventing this heat loss.
• Prevents condensation and mold:By keeping the slab edge warm, it prevents moisture from the interior air from condensing on the cold concrete, which can lead to mold and other problems that can degrade building materials.
• Improves thermal mass utilization:A slab’s thermal mass can help regulate indoor temperatures, but this is only effective if the slab’s edges are insulated, preventing the slab from rapidly losing or gaining heat to the outside.
Contact Brian 0412 341 587 to learn more and request a quote