In northern U.S. climates, builders mitigate the effects of frost heave by constructing homes with basements, slabs, or crawlspaces with perimeter footings below the frost line. Other construction methods include:

• Piles or caissons extending below the frost-line
• Mat or reinforced structural slab foundations to resist heave
• Non-frost susceptible fills and drainage
• Adjustable foundation supports

     The FPSF allows builders to construct a structurally sound foundation at a lower cost than associated with these practices. Although this discussion is limited to slab foundations, the technology may also be used with crawlspace construction when ventilation is properly controlled.

     In addition to substantial initial cost savings, FPSFs provide an opportunity for increased energy savings because of their insulation requirements. These minimum insulation requirements for frost protection generally exceed existing energy code requirements (i.e., the CABO Model Energy Code) for foundation insulation.

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