I having a problem choosing whether to go with slab-on-grade or thin-slab over wood subfloor/crawlspace for my new home. The architect I’m working with isn’t much help and recommends the slab alternative.
With the thick slab, I will need saw cuts for control joints. I leaning toward the crawlspace (yes, with the rat slab!) and thin slab. And to manage the cracking, using a wood grid of say 3′ squares for both control joints and screeds. The grid can be made of 1×4 hardwood, sitting on 6 inch 2×4 blocks every 18 inches or so to allow for the pex tubing underneath. This would give the concrete a depth of 2.25…is this sufficient, or would 4×4 blocks for a depth of 4.25 be better?
And what about finishing the exposed 1×4 hardwood? Will the concrete stain it too much to be useable? Is there a way to protect the hardwood to make the final finishing easier?
Any and all ideas welcome! What do you think the difference in cost between the two methods will be?
Replies
you don't have to cut the slab anymore. there are zip strips available that do the same thing. If I put tube in a slab I require these to be used.