Insulation of slab-on-ground floors
Understanding how to maximise the insulation of a slab-on-ground floor is an important step to designing an energy-efficient building. So, where is the main heat loss, and how is a slab best insulated?
This website is best viewed on a newer browser than the one you are using. Learn about upgrading your browser (opens in a new window/tab)
Welcome to BRANZ Build. Skip to main content.
Practical how-to articles for builders and designers showing good industry practice and interpretation of the NZ Building Code and standards.
Showing results 1-10 of 28
Order by:
By Ian Cox-Smith – 1 December 2008, Build 109
Understanding how to maximise the insulation of a slab-on-ground floor is an important step to designing an energy-efficient building. So, where is the main heat loss, and how is a slab best insulated?
By Trevor Pringle – 1 December 2011, Build 127
Another change since the Canterbury earthquakes is that all reinforcing in slabs on the ground must now be tied into the foundation wall reinforcing.
By Ian Cox-Smith – 1 February 2008, Build 104
Reflective foil insulation products are commonly labelled with a component R-value. This does not signify performance, and should not be confused with the R-values for bulk insulation products.
By Graeme Beattie – 1 December 2011, Build 127
Lessons from the Canterbury earthquakes mean that all concrete floor slabs must now be reinforced with steel bars or welded mesh with a reasonable degree of ductility.
By Alide Elkink – 1 February 2007, Build 98
Timber blocking or herringbone strutting is intended to provide lateral support to floor joists by providing stiffening to the joists and transferring some of the load to adjacent joists.
By Tom Edhouse – 1 June 2013, Build 136
Readers have asked about bracing requirements in two extra situations, so tom edhouse outlines the rules. First up are discontinuous floors or ceilings.
By Roger Shelton – 1 June 2013, Build 136
BRANZ has been asked recently for help interpreting NZS 3604:2011 bracing provisions for buildings with suspended subfloor structures. Here are a few pointers.
By Ann Galloway – 1 October 2016, Build 156
There’s a little breathing space, but soon, many rental properties will need to be retrofitted with underfloor insulation. Retrofitting foil insulation has been banned, so what are the options?
By Roger Shelton – 1 June 2019, Build 172
Where is blocking required to stabilise floor joists? We look to NZS 3604:2011 Timber-framed buildings for answers.
By Bruce Sedcole – 1 October 2021, Build 186
From 4 November 2021, there will no longer be an Acceptable Solution in Building Code clause E3 Internal moisture for using timber or timber based products as linings and finishes to floors in wet areas. However, an Alternative Solution designed and specified to best practice is easy to do.