ABOUT
US

Our engineers have been specializing in floating slab design for 10 years. We focus on providing economical and practical solutions to construction. Our engineers are licensed in Ontario, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Prince Edward Island & British Columbia. 

Need engineered stamped drawings for a floating slab? Just click the blue "Get Yours Now" below, fill out the details for your building and site in the form and click the submit button.  

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WHAT IS A FLOATING SLAB

Floating slabs are used as the foundations for a variety of structures, including sheds, car garages, additions, cottages and much more.  The concrete slab has a thickened and reinforced perimeter but does not need to extend below the frost line.  This type of foundation is called a "floating slab" because it "floats" on the soil.

WHY USE FLOATING SLABS?

Building a floating slab is one of the most economical methods of constructing a foundation.  Traditional foundations include a strip footing with a frost wall above.  The strip footing is installed below the frost level, usually 4'-0" below grade.  The cost of a strip footing and frost wall is higher because there is more excavation, concrete and labour required.

For sheds, our opinion is that floating slab foundations are usually the best option.

For houses, there are some disadvantages to think about, that should be weighted against the advantages.

BENEFITS OF FLOATING SLAB CONSTRUCTION
FOR HOUSES:
 

• Don't require a 8'-0" basement wall
• Don't require a wood flooring system
• Less concrete and forming is required making for a more economical and ecological construction
• Cheaper house insurance because there is no basement to flood or chance of Radon gas infiltration.
• Floating slabs can be heated with radiant floor heat which provides a comfortable and balanced heat.
   

DISADVANTAGES OF FLOATING SLAB CONSTRUCTION
FOR HOUSES:
 

• Loss of storage space
• Sometimes decreased resale for the house because of the missing basement.