We intend to purchase and install a new shed that is 10 x 21. We understand that a concrete pad is the best way to go for the floor. I would like to do as much preparatory work as possible (to reduce cost)so can you tell me the steps involved in putting in the base required for the concrete itself.
Answer:
This is going to too much work for what you'll gain from it and because the pad will only break up if you live in an area where frost could be a problem. I suggest a frame made of 4X4s, well attached at the corners. Fill this to within a couple inches of the top and then lay in either patio stones or interlocking bricks. It will still heave with frost but patio stones and inter-lock are easy to level off again. You might even want to extend a couple of feet past the shed on the side where you'll be storing things outside. A pad would have to be at least six inches thick with expansion joints cut into it so that any future movement wouldn't break it up as badly and it might settle back down to level afterward.
Courtesy of Ren Molnar, Construction Consultant at HomeFocus.com. I can also be reached at (613) 748-3003 and Home Focus – The Radio Show is broadcast live 8 to 10 A.M. (Ottawa, Ont. time) on Saturdays on www.cfra.com. In the interests of retaining credibility and in fairness to all, I cannot recommend prices, people nor companies for various projects.
Remember, even if you don’t do your own work around the house have to hire someone, you put yourself at a great advantage when you can intelligently discuss a project with the various trades people.
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