Page 11 - Green Builder Magazine July 2015 Issue

SPECIAL SECTION

Exposed Foundation Insulation

An excerpt from ICC’s Energy Code Essentials: Based on the 2015 International Energy
Conservation Code®

Energy Code Essentials: Based Exposed Foundation Insulation 51
on the 2015 International
Energy Conservation Code® EXPOSED FOUNDATION INSULATION
uses a straightforward, focused
approach to introduce code The code requires insulation on the exterior foundation to be protected
users to the new requirements. from physical damage and direct sunlight. Basement and crawlspace
Color illustrations and practical walls and slab-edge insulation must be covered with a rigid, opaque,
on-the-job scenarios allow weather-resistant material that covers the exposed material above grade
readers to gain confidence and extends at least 6 inches below grade (Figure 5-10). [Ref. C303.2.1]
in their understanding of the This protection contributes to maintaining the thermal design perfor-
material. This publication may mance of the installed insulation.
be purchased by visiting the
ICC online store at WALL
www.iccsafe.org/GBessentials. COVERING

INSULATING
SHEATHING

FOUNDATION RIGID INSULATION
INSULATION R-15 AT BASEMENT SLAB
PROTECTION
FINISHED GRADE VAPOR BARRIER

6 in. MINIMUM

DRAINAGE 4 in. MINIMUM
MAT COMPACTED GRANULAR

R-10 RIGID INSULATION AT BASE
FOUNDATION WALLS-TYP.

FIGURE 5-10 Exposed foundation insulation protection