Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 1/14/2009

Question
I am getting ready to start building a house (with my own 2 hands) My problem is that I really want a slab foundation but my lot slopes about 4' where the footprint of the house is. I cannot find any information on how to properly build footings, stem walls, etc for a raised slab. Can you point me in the right direction (books, websites) Also, when i get to that point I am planning on using Icynene foam insulation, the local dealer told my that i did not need to use house wrap. Is that right? Doesn't the outside sheathing(OSB) need to be protected from water?

Answer
Hi Will, gee, I guess Amazon or any bookstore has books on foundations.  What I know about foundations came from doing them so I don't know what book to suggest, however I know that there are a lot of them.  Go to a bookstore and browse until you find one that suits your building needs.  Icynene has a couple of negatives going for it that I know of.  The main one is that it does emit fumes.  You might want to discuss this with your insulation contractor.  As far as house wrap goes, definitelg worth doing, Tyvek or Typar, both good products.  I hope this information helps feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com