Cement trucks at the building site, as seen from the hay field.
Pouring the foundation
Blowing in the wind
Strong winds overnight blew our neatly stacked EPS foam all over the field.
Stacks of rigid foam insulation
The blocks are 10 inches thick by 14 feet long. After the foundation is sealed, the blocks will be attached to the outside of the wall from the footing up to the sill. This will complete the outside layer of insulation that completely separates the foundation from the surrounding soil. Blocks will also go under the slab. The white foam is EPS. The darker blocks are Neopor from BASF, a graphite-enhanced EPS with higher R-value.
Placing forms for the foundation walls
This is the first opportunity to get a sense of inside space in our new house. This view is looking South to the lower level sliding door entrance. The ground beyond will be excavated out after the completion of the foundation.
Installing rebar
Dan and Rich install rebar for the inside of the lower level walls.
Vapor barrier running over footing and under walls
For perfect air sealing, moisture control and maximum energy efficiency. A 10 mil plastic sheet extends from under the lower floor slab (not yet poured). The sheet passes over the footing and under the yet to be constructed wall (rebar shown in place). Outside, the sheet will help seal the foundation wall.
Frost wall is insulated and backfilled
The footing and South end frost wall have been brought up to level, ready for the foundation walls.
Applying insulation to the frost wall
Bill Stratton general contractor and crew surround the South end frost wall with rigid foam insulation. There will be complete insulation between the foundation and the surrounding soil.Raising the frost wall
Sliding glass doors will allow us to walk out of the lower level (after a lot more excavation to the South). Extra deep footings are required to get below the excavated entrance.