Some great comments and info regarding slab (concrete) vs other floor systems. I'd like to add to the discussion.
I'm definitely not fond of pipes in a slab and agree concrete can be hard on a body. I suspect the older I get any prolonged standing is gonna be wearing, whatever I'm on, so I expect to do a fair amount of sitting in furniture in our new house, except when sleeping in the bed of course. I'm hoping most of my walking/standing will be outdoors - on natural soil/grass (or sitting on my tractor
).
Our decision to go slab vs raised floor was not without a lot of thought. One of the reasons our house is extended and on a single level is future planning - we have the possibible need of a wheelchair - so no multiple stories. Also why all doors are 36" plus, no hallways, curbless shower, raised dishwasher, adjusted height electrical, etc.
If building on post and pier or raised foundation, bottom of the floor must be minimum of 24 inches above the ground - that's 4 steps and/or minimum 24 foot ramp (plus landing). If higher, add another foot of ramp length for every inch elevation. I'd probably want 2 separate entrances for safety. I can push a wheelchair easier on concrete than carpet. I doubt if the person sitting in the chair can feel the difference between concrete or wood.
Our choice to try the acid stain/sealer finish has been interesting as well. Cracks are a concern, but then again ever seen a slab crack that was finished in tile, carpet, vinyl, even wood? If a major crack, the finsih floor will be disturbed as well. We are using lots of rebar and mesh. The slabs will also be sawcut for stress. Back when I was doing cost evaluations of post and pier vs slab, finish floor was considered additional cost for both. Now that we are building and we get to provide hurricane relief through higher material costs, whatever finish for our approx 3000 sf of finish floor quickly becomes a big number. One of the advantages of the acid stain finish (besides lower cost if owner-builder) is if at any time in furure we decide to add wood, tile, etc it can be done with minimal prep - virtually no tearout of existing floor. We also have some opportunity for a little artistic play with the acid stain finish.
As for the pipes. MY plumber has done an excellent job. Three main factors that lessen (not eliminate) my concerns:
1. Use of cpvc piping instead of copper. More flexibility, less susecptible to acid water.
2. All piping is wrapped in a foam sleave with joints taped. This provides both a degree of cushioning as well as insulation.
3. All piping is bedded in sand. After trenching, sand was laid in, then the foam sleaved pipe, then covered with more sand. BTW, sand is really expensive here $21/ton vs $14/ton for base course.
Anyway, just wanted to share a bit of what went into our decision process - your mileage may vary.
David
Ninole Resident
