Thermal Break Between Concrete Patio and Existing Slab
connorkatz
| Posted in Energy Efficiency and Durability on
Hello,
I am building a concrete patio that will extend off of an existing slab on grade foundation. Paso Robles, CA
I am wondering if it’s worth creating a thermal break between the existing foundation and the concrete patio. And if so how to do so without exposing the edge of rigid foam to the elements?
See attached pictures for a better description
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Replies
I’m not sure about the thermal break but you might want to slightly slope the patio away from the foundation depending on the rest of your landscape. If there is any way for water to end up at ground level besides roof you want it away from your foundation.
Connor,
Unless you intend to add exterior insulation to the rest of your foundation walls there isn't much point doing it at the patio. There will be no more heat loss there than elsewhere. If you do add the foam it should extend up to the framed walls above. You can cover it with a flashing which extends over the top and down the face as far a necessary for protection.