Deffinition of a floating slab

Cory Groft

I am searching for an accurate definition of a floating slab and the benifits of having one

concretemasonry

What are you building? Since you want an accurate definition the specific use and conditions permit similare slabs that are not exactly "floating", but are generally called floating.

A true "floating slab" example would be a garage slab the is poured between stem walls. It is not attached to the stem walls and is supported by the compacted soil beneath it.

The advantages are less of a tendancy to crack since the edges are not tied and the thickness and reinforcement can be less that a typical structural slab.

A basement floor is very similar, but not exactly the same. Much thicker slabs like slab foundations and post-teneioned slabs are also similar, since the soil supports the slab.

Cory Groft

Lets use the true definition, would a product that is 3/8" thick continuous vapor barrier acting as a cushion like thin foam products now being used under wood floors have a benefit? The product is called Slab shield.

concretemasonry

You would have to check with the flooring manufacturer to see that the requirements are the materials to use under a wood floor. This will affect any flooring material guarantees.

The term "vapor barrier", which is more correctly referred to as a "vapor retarder" depends on the material AND the thickness.

Cory Groft

I apologize I didn't phrase my question clearly. The question is using the flexible foam product under concrete. I know that improves cure time, radon and termite barriers.