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LaHouse is a display of high-performance building practices to create more sustainable, resilient and healthy homes in the gulf region. The research-based facility is located on LSU's Baton Rouge campus and displays home-building techniques and solutions for Louisiana's unique climate. LaHouse is open weekdays from 10 am to 4:30 p.m. for self-guided tours or can be toured completely virtually.
Experience the Lahouse via virtual tour
Concrete is porous, so ground moisture can penetrate upward to flooring or any substance in contact with the concrete. This can result in mold growth, mildew, ground vapor off-gassing, and damage to flooring or the concrete pad itself. A slab should have a vapor barrier if the pad surface is sealed with an impermeable finish or protected and heated by a permanent structure. Slabs exposed to the elements should not have a vapor barrier unless they are sealed in the future.
A vapor barrier is a material that restricts moisture penetration. It is also known as a moisture or vapor retarder.
Because the garage is detached, the exhaust fumes will not seep into the house if a car is accidentally left running, as this could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
A post tension slab is a typical concrete slab that has cables running through it to prevent shifting and foundation problems. In areas with expansive soil, a post tension slab helps prevent foundation problems as the cables hold the slab together despite the shifting soil.
The slab should be elevated no less than 8 inches above ground to keep the wood framing away from rain splash, soil dampness, and termites.
Dry floodproofing involves building the bottom of a structure watertight enough to prevent flood water from entering the structure.
This moisture barrier protects the home from moisture entering through the slab
