*
Hi All.
I’ve a a real tough time searching for information about planning a house with a slab-on-grade foundation and water, waste, and electrical conduit in the slab. (Yes, I’m real savvy with search engines.) You try it!
We’re planning a 2K sq. ft. house on a slab and I’m curious about the planning details for the in-slab stuff. Clearly, when it’s literally ‘cast in stone’, you want to get it right the first time.
I read Wayne Muck’s post today. Good stuff, thanks. But what considerations are needed when you have all those tubes embedded in and around footings, foam, gravel, et al?
Much thanks,
Scott.
Replies
*
Scott;
I never believe anything I read on the internet...
Seriously, for such an incredibly broad topic, you should look to your library. Read how its been done in the past. Maybe even luck out with a modern text.
Then perhaps buy a book or two on more up-to-date construction techniques.
Use a forum for specific questions. IMHO, you'll never get enough info from surfing.
*Scott,This is an area where getting the details right can make a big difference in the final result. The big issues are servicability over time and utility. Serviceability over time means the materials you use under the slab will hold up. The big concern here is ensuring that your water supply lines are the proper type for your water conditions and that they are isolated from direct contact with concrete or abrasives in the fill. Coated copper tubing is available now for this purpose as are "sleeves" for regular tubing. You may also meet code by wrapping the tubing with foam insulation. Don't assume, check. For electric lines use PVC and pull a ground. Utility means thinking ahead. Ask yourself what electrical, telephone, and TV cable lines (CTV) will you be running under the slab. Think about what you want the day you move in and what you will want when everthing is done. What about electrical service to outside buildings (shops, garages, etc., swimming pools or outside lighting - both now and in the future? Best way is to run a conduit from the service panel under the slab to exit a foot or so below the ground level. You may also want to bring your telephone and CTV into the house through underslab conduits. If you want water service to a shop or pool provide an appropriately sized line to exit the foundation below the frost line. If the pool or shop is "down the road" you can cap it off or better yet, install a frost free yard hydrant for the time being (much better than through the wall frost free garden hose bibs). You may also want to run a conduit for telephone service to the shop or yard pavilion. Whatever you put under the slab make sure it comes out where you want it. More than one wall has been moved to meet the plumbing. Really screws up that kitchen cabinet order you made off the blueprints. Pay particular attention to tub and shower drains. These are hard to position and difficult to move after the mud has turned to stone. In general, DWV goes in first followed by water supply lines followed by conduit. You should have no problem finding room for everything. Have fun!