Building a new shop

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m (Foundation and floor)
m (Foundation and floor)
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Some people prefer a curb around the perimeter of my building, rather than a slab. The reason for the curb is that it will keep out moisture, insects, etc. When pouring floors, always have a rotating laser level on hand and double check levels as the pour and leveling goes on. Grade floor from corners to middle, and center of space to outdoor openings. Put a sump pit in large buildings to collect runoff water and use a gravity drain or pump out system to remove it. Increase floor thickness in areas where you are using a lift or have heavy shop equipment.
 
Some people prefer a curb around the perimeter of my building, rather than a slab. The reason for the curb is that it will keep out moisture, insects, etc. When pouring floors, always have a rotating laser level on hand and double check levels as the pour and leveling goes on. Grade floor from corners to middle, and center of space to outdoor openings. Put a sump pit in large buildings to collect runoff water and use a gravity drain or pump out system to remove it. Increase floor thickness in areas where you are using a lift or have heavy shop equipment.
  
I would add that if you are considering a car lift or heavy vehicles that you should plan on a slab thinckness of at least 6" rather than 4".  Tell the concrete installer that you want a "smooth' floor.  Try sweeping rough concrete and then try smooth.  You will never want rough again.
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I would add that if you are considering a car lift or heavy vehicles that you should plan on a slab thickness of at least 6" rather than 4".  Tell the concrete installer that you want a "smooth' floor.  Try sweeping rough concrete and then try smooth.  You will never want rough again.
 
If you are in a frost zone you should probably inquire about "frost walls."  This will keep the outer walls from lifting and cracking with the frost. This is also the time to consider floor drains.  Ask the floor installer about it.  He should have good ideas and it won't cost that much. Mark L.
 
If you are in a frost zone you should probably inquire about "frost walls."  This will keep the outer walls from lifting and cracking with the frost. This is also the time to consider floor drains.  Ask the floor installer about it.  He should have good ideas and it won't cost that much. Mark L.
  

Revision as of 23:52, 31 January 2009

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