Inexpensive Plastics For Thermal Break?

[ICT_Kevin]

Hey All. I've read several things here on thermal breaks. I'd like to get R-5 or better between my slab and the apron when it's poured. I'd love to use a sturdy plastic so I don't need foam with some type of armor cover. Is there anything you guys know that fits the bill? I've struck out so far. Should I just start shopping for 25 lb foam and an armor bridge plate?

Kevin

 

[meathooker]

What about corrugated plastic (looks like cardboard)?

 

[ICT_Kevin]

I guess I don't know much about it. I tend away from hollow water traps. Silence suggests: meh?

Found some engineering thermal conductivity tables that I could take the inverse and get R-values. All the sturdy plastics looked terrible, less than R-0.5 per inch. I guess foam is pretty much it. I'll probably aim for something hard and non-flammable to cover it.

 

[NUTTSGT]

I'd consider some foam and after the concrete is poured, dig out he top edge of it. Then fill in the gap with a Sika product like concrete fix.

 

[rsa]

Take a look at Energy Edge. Links also have discussion about your question, not only "Energy Edge".

http://www.greenbuildingadvisor.com...lding-blog/energy-edge-slab-insulation-system

http://www.greenbuildingadvisor.com...4/slab-garage-door-how-insulate-hold-back-pex

http://www.greenbuildingadvisor.com...voiding-thermal-bridge-under-doors-slab-grade