SuperSlab Foundation System
Proven, Certified, Supplied by Higgins Concrete
SuperSlab is a proven, high performing foundation system used widely across New Zealand residential and light commercial construction. It is engineered to simplify on site construction, reduce build time, and deliver strong, thermally efficient foundations that meet today’s building standards.
At Higgins Concrete, we are a licensed supplier of the SuperSlab system, trusted by builders, developers, and engineers for its strength, speed, and certified performance.
For tailored advice or a site specific slab design, you can submit your project details through DesignHub, our dedicated design request platform.
Why Choose SuperSlab?
Certified Confidence
SuperSlab is BRANZ Appraised and CodeMark Certified. It meets the performance and insulation requirements of the New Zealand Building Code, including the latest H1 thermal efficiency standards.
Reliable Strength and Durability
Designed to handle varying ground conditions, SuperSlab provides enhanced structural integrity and resilience, making it a trusted choice for residential construction across the country.
Faster Installation, Reduced Delays
SuperSlab’s integrated features streamline the construction process, reduce labour demands, and help keep your project on schedule from the ground up.
Looking for a more sustainable alternative?
If you are after a system that includes insulation and supports lower waste and faster installs, consider SuperSlab+, an enhanced option designed to improve efficiency and sustainability on site.
Design Support Made Simple
Whether you need a full foundation specification, engineered floor design, or help choosing the right system, DesignHub is here to support your project.
Through DesignHub, you can:
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Request a raft slab layout or fully engineered residential floor design using the SuperSlab system
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Confirm CodeMark certification and compliance for your slab design
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Get drafting support based on your floor plans
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Access specific engineered designs tailored to your site
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Calculate R values to meet H1 insulation requirements
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Receive detailed material take offs and quantity estimates
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Get value engineering advice to optimise your slab design
Submit your project plans today and DesignHub will take care of the rest.
Frequently Asked Questions
SuperSlab is a fully engineered and compliant concrete foundation system. It offers time and cost savings, while enhancing energy efficiency and structural strength. SuperSlab is CodeMark certified and BRANZ appraised for peace of mind.
Yes, any qualified builder can construct a SuperSlab foundation when following the supplied plans and construction specifications.
Yes. SuperSlab can be used on sites with an allowable bearing pressure starting at 50 kPa (as per Table 1 in the SuperSlab Technical Manual). For other ground conditions, a Specific Engineering Design (SED) may be required. The system can also span between piles on poor ground or deep topsoil, making it suitable for a wide range of land classifications.
The standard SuperSlab system is designed for 2.5 kPa (suitable for residential garage loads). With specific design input, the system can be upgraded to handle loads up to 10 kPa. Reinforcement and topping thickness may vary for heavier applications.
Yes. SuperSlab works well on sloping sites. Minor steps can often be poured in a single pour. For more significant level changes, the retaining wall footing is integrated into the lower slab, reducing excavation. Stepped floors may require SED.
Yes. Experienced contractors can install a SuperSlab in approximately 3 days. Traditional footings typically take around 2 weeks, resulting in significant time and labour savings.
SuperSlab includes rib structures that average around 125mm of flat concrete. However, this is offset by savings in:
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Excavation and disposal
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Hard fill requirements
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Block perimeter foundations
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If your site qualifies as ‘good ground’, engineering isn't required under CodeMark. If an SED is needed, design generally takes 3-5 working days.
Yes. When CodeMark conditions are met, councils must accept SuperSlab. All supporting calculations and drawings are provided by the slab designer and can be submitted with your initial building consent or as an amendment.
Yes, BRANZ appraisal No.964 (2017) acknowledges that a SuperSlab flooring system complies with the New Zealand building code. If a SED is required, PS1 and PS4 statements will be required when lodging a consent.
What is a PS1? A Design Producer Statement. This is confirmation from an engineer that it is designed to the New Zealand Building Code.
What is a PS4? A Construction Review Producer Statement. This is confirmation from an engineer that it has been constructed in accordance with the details shown on the consented documents relating to the PS1.
Not usually. Shear keys aren't required under CodeMark unless specific seismic conditions apply. In seismic zones (e.g., Christchurch), shear keys are still recommended unless soil conditions indicate lateral spreading; however, this will be determined by an engineering team in the design process.
Yes. SuperSlab offers improved R-value and thermal mass, creating a warmer floor. SuperSlab+ enhances this further with a fully insulated or edge-insulated system that exceeds standard thermal requirements.
Absolutely. Just submit a design request online through DesignHub..
There is no charge for this.
You can download the latest version or request a copy through DesignHub, www.thedesignhub.co.nz