QPOD FAQs
QPOD General FAQ
What is Raft Style?
Rib raft foundation, pod floor, waffle slab or floating foundation, are all names used to describe the ‘Raft’ concept that delivers real benefits over conventional concrete floor foundations. A grillage of beams within the concrete slab provides a stiffer and stronger final product than a conventional 100mm concrete slab on grade, and because of its inherent strength a deepened perimeter footing can usually be omitted.
What is Continuous?
Continuous is when QPOD are configured as a continuous grid of pods joined together as demonstrated under configuration type ‘continuous’.
What does QPOD™ mean?
QPOD™ origins –
- QPOD was derived from Q as in ‘Quakes’ which raft floors and ‘Pods’ are specifically designed to withstand.
- Q is a semi universal acronym for ‘Quality’.
- It is a play on the word ‘Cupid’ which In classical mythology denotes love …earth friendly flooring.
Who can engineer my QPOD™ foundation?
QPOD™ is a CodeMark solution and does not require engineering. When your floor falls outside of this CodeMark your engineer can specify QPOD™. Alternatively QPOD™ work closely with many engineers who can prepare your design on behalf. Contact us
See also our engineering Services section.
What is the ‘R’ Value?
The R-value is a measure of how well a material resists the flow of heat, essentially indicating its insulating power. In the context of foundations, the R-value helps determine how effective the foundation will be at preventing heat loss from the building to the ground. A higher R-value means better insulation and energy efficiency.
For foundations, the R-value is influenced by the area-to-perimeter ratio. Most heat loss occurs around the perimeter of the building, so insulating the edge of the foundation can significantly improve the overall thermal performance. While underslab insulation adds value, targeting the perimeter is often the most cost-effective way to increase the foundation’s R-value. Designers can choose from various proprietary systems or create custom edge solutions to enhance insulation, especially if the building will have heated floors.
To better understand the impact of these choices, you can use our online calculator to estimate your foundation’s R-value, both with and without additional QuickSet insulation options.
Is QPOD suitable for TC2 & TC3?
The short answer is yes:
In TC1 zones, where future land damage from liquefaction is unlikely, both our Continuous and Raft foundation systems are fully compliant with the NZS 3604 residential building standard. Either option provides a robust solution for your build.
TC2 refers to areas where expansive soils, which can shrink or swell, and potential liquefaction damage may occur during future significant earthquakes. In these cases, the QPOD Raft foundation can be optimised as a Specific Engineering Design (SED), meaning it is tailored by engineers to meet the unique soil conditions of your site for added strength and stability. Shallow ground investigations might be necessary when repairing or replacing foundations in TC2 zones.
TC3 refers to areas where there is a higher risk of liquefaction damage during future large earthquakes. In these zones, a geotechnical engineering assessment is typically required to determine the best foundation solution for repair or rebuilding. The QPOD Raft foundation can also be optimised as a Specific Engineering Design (SED) to address the more complex requirements of TC3 environments.
Where is QPOD manufactured?
Every QPOD product is proudly designed and manufactured in Napier, Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand. Our innovative solutions are available across New Zealand and Australia, delivering sustainable building options with local expertise.
What is the QPOD™ made of?
QPOD™ is proudly manufactured using 100% recycled and reprocessed plastic, ensuring a sustainable choice for your foundation system. With minimal off-cuts, any waste can be easily recycled through local recycling services. Made from polypropylene (Recycling Code #5 PP), QPOD™ contributes to reducing plastic waste while delivering durable, eco-friendly performance.
What is the Warranty Period of QPOD?
As a requirement complying with The Building Code Clause B2- Durability QPOD is warranted for a 50 year period from date of correct installation “life of the building”.
QPOD Costs FAQ
What is QPOD cost compared to polystyrene?
Depending where you live, approximately $4/m2 more in materials cost, the savings all come right on back when you factor in in zero polystyrene offcuts, no dumping/recycling fees and a modular clip together system.
What is the extra concrete usage?
Extra concrete is a factor purely due to the shape of the QPOD, your concrete usage for a home can be influenced by many other factors including internal thickenings and load pads. Concrete volume can be calculated using our online materials calculator.
QPOD Certifications and Approvals
Is QPOD™ a CodeMark Solution?
QPOD™ is a CodeMark Solution. To learn more about QPOD™ CodeMark approval head to our CodeMark page.
Is QPOD™ Branz approved?
QPOD™ when used in conjunction with Allied READY Super Slab is BRANZ appraised No. 964 (2017).
QPOD Installation
Who do I use to construct my QPOD™ foundation?
Or try out our free online calculator
Do I need to meet a minimum R value with Underfloor heating?
Yes, heated floors must meet the H1/AS1 or AS2 schedule R-values and these may not be reduced by use of the calculation method or the modeling method (VM1 or VM2). See H1 Release section: 2.1.1.3
In our opinion this applies to the entire slab even if only a portion of the slab is heated, such as the bathroom, unless this portion is thermally isolated from the rest of the slab. See more on H1.
Does QPOD require hockey stick bars at perimeter?
Yes, as per B1/AS1 amendment 11 of NZS 3604:2011 requirements which came into force on 1 August 2011.
The amendment is modified to exclude unreinforced slabs and requires all perimeter foundations to be tied to the concrete slab with reinforcing steel.
See attached download from Branz generally covering this subject here:
Download Std QPOD perimeter detail here.:
Can I use fibre reinforcing with polished concrete floors?
It’s generally not recommended to use fibre reinforcing when the slab will be polished.
While fibre can replace traditional steel links in ribs and footings, it often leaves small fibres visible at the surface once the concrete is ground and polished. Even with techniques such as bug rolling (used to push fibres down before finishing), the results can be inconsistent – especially with steel fibres or deeper grinding.
If a polished finish is required, it’s best to avoid fibre reinforcement altogether and use conventional reinforcing links or mesh instead.
Have more questions
about QPOD™?
Send us any questions using this form, and our team will get back to you.
Alternatively, contact the team directly on 0800 000 872