Trying to decided between slab or crawl space for new construction in Atlanta.
by
Hank B
+13
Any input on considerations and pros/cons is much appreciated.
16 answers
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Hi Hank, Personally I'd go with a slab. It doesn't let all the critters in there that a crawl space would. Although the crawl space gives you access to all the plumbing, etc. that is under the house.
Dan's of Central Florida, Inc.
on Sep 26, 2011
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I'm not a contractor or any sort of expert on buildings, but I've gotta tell you... having a decent crawlspace/basement has made a WORLD of difference to us. Not only has it made many repairs and installations much more cost effective, I've been able to do so many little jobs on my own because I've had easy access. Something to think about.....
Jerrold M
on Sep 26, 2011
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Hank, A crawlspace is more expensive in the construction process and there is an expense involved in maintaining it...but I dare say it is worth every penny when it comes down to it. If you go with the crawlspace, may sure you go with a sealed/conditioned crawlspace. Again, more money upfront but well worth the investment.
Hewitt Remodeling Services LLC
on Sep 26, 2011
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Hank, I've built both and when it comes to ease of construction, a slab has always proven to be the best. Check building codes. In most areas in Fl you have to have at least an R-13 insulation in the crawl space and a solid (taped joints) visquene (plastic) liner which covers the entire ground surface under the structure after you pre-treat to keep out the termites and to control moisture. Also check for homeowners assoc. requirements if needed and flood plain restrictions in your area. Personally, I would prefer a slab construction in GA if for no other reason than the problems with frozen water pipes which are exposed in a crawl space plus pier construction isn't as solid as slab in high wind prone areas. Let us know what you decide.
Courtier Construction
on Sep 26, 2011
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Hank, A crawlspace will provide 2 important elements: a more comfortable floor both in flexibility and temperature, and room to place plumbing, electrical and HVAC below the space. I would recommend the framed floor with crawlspace -- the difference in cost is less significant than the benefit of the construction.
Home Forge Remodeling
on Sep 26, 2011
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IF i only had this choice, i'd choose crawlspace w/5' clearance,,, since you're at this ' flip-of-the-coin ' stage, consider access, footer/pier const, & waterproofing steps now
Itsreally C
on Sep 27, 2011
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I'd go for the crawl....It sure is nice to have good access under your home.
Imagery
on Oct 01, 2011
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Hank If you decide to go with a slab. Make sure that your water lines goes above thru the attic not the slab. It is ok to install the sewer lines in the slab.Talk to your plumber about a water manifold. The line goes from the manifold directly to example the cold water side of the sink. You can turn off each individual lines you don't have to shut the all system to work on one line. The only place it could leak is at the manifold or where ever that line ends. Contractors always want the easy way out. After living in Florida for many years and now living in Marietta. I would go with a crawl space it is easyer to do repairs. Make sure that you install enought lighting in the crawl space so that you do not need a flash light if you go under your house. Mike from Marietta GA
Michael
on Oct 02, 2011
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Personally, I prefer slab or cealed basement. If you can build it and waterproof it sufficiently than there are benefits to one as mentioned by others. But most crawspaces I've been it are very musty and moldy.
Debbie
on Oct 02, 2011
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Slab is cheaper, no reason to do crawl unless terrain is sloped and needs it. Personally, I like basements, great for workshop, but really depends on the site and what you want.
Allen J
on Oct 02, 2011
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Personally I prefer crawl spaces because of the flexibility you have to add at a cheaper cost wet rooms beacuse the drain lines are not imbedded in the slab. Professionally speaking I hate them because I hate to crawl under there :-p. But Allen and Courtier are right about check the HOA if it applies and the terrain.
RedFish Home Inspections
on Oct 02, 2011
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I'll add a second post here to clarify my first. I prefer crawlspaces.....but I'm not talking about the dark, moldy, damp crawlspaces many of us are so familiar with. I'm talking about sealed/conditioned crawlspaces with good clearances that protect the very "rock" per say (foundation & ground structure) that our investment rests on. I don't know why the change in attitude....it could be the "green" push...but we are finally recognizing or at least acknowledging that for years we should have paid a little more attention to how we build and maintain them, primarily in those parts of the country where humidity is an issue. I think the whole industry "ostriched" this one (buried our heads in the sand) for years because it wasn't an issue when the house was first purchased by an excited homeowner..otherwise we as consumers would have demanded a better product. Yes, a proper crawlspace is more expensive than a slab. As such, in my mind, I would only go with a slab if it were a budget issue...
Hewitt Remodeling Services LLC
on Oct 03, 2011
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Not much to add....if you have the money and are planning to live there for a long time...go for it and put a full basement in....there's so much you can do with the space...especially if it's day-lit...plus resale value. But it depends on the neighborhood...what price range are we talking about and are you acting as your own GC? As Tim and the others have written....if it's budget....slab....but if you can afford it...at least a decent crawlspace that's semi-usable. Also, for our readers...it really depends on your market, your needs and where you are geographically. In FL, with a high water table...you'll be on a slab.....in metro Atlanta...it all depends on the site....we have a ton of granite here and it can get expensive to blast and dig! For my money...in this market...I wouldn't build..I'd buy a foreclosure using a renovation loan and make instant equity from go!
HandyANDY - Handyman & All Repairs, LLC
on Oct 03, 2011
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Thanks for all the great input. The lot is essentially level so unfortunately a full basement is out that would have been my preference. What do you think the price difference would between slab and crawlspace for a house with 2000 sq. ft. on the1st floor?
Hank B
on Oct 07, 2011
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Couldn't tell you but I bet "itsreallyc" can!
HandyANDY - Handyman & All Repairs, LLC
on Oct 08, 2011
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suggest you need to talk w/your builder for pricing but think of track-hoe for excavation, redistribution/removal of spoil, backfilling
Itsreally C
on Oct 11, 2011
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