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Leveling an old slab that will be built on

Tomater | Posted in General Questions on

I am convertingĀ  an old, large shop into a home for me and my family. There are a couple of floor drains and one area that are sloped. The plan is to cover the existing slab with 2-2″ layers of EPS and then two layers of subflooring. The sloped areas 2″-2.5″ out of level. Suggestions on how to bring those areas back up? The areas seem to large to be using some sort self leveler. Sand with some 3/8 stone throw a little quikrete on it and hit it with a hose just to hold it together? I’m at a loss right now. Also where should I put the vapor barrier, below or above the insulation?

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Replies

  1. Expert Member
    DCcontrarian | | #1

    I would be thinking about putting in a raised wooden floor. If it snows at all where you are raise it 36" and you'll thank yourself every time it snows. Even if you can only raise it a little it will make the plumbing, electrical and HVAC easier having room to work below the floor, as well as simplifying insulation. And it will be easier to level and make a better floor to boot.

  2. gusfhb | | #2

    HOw big an area? Might be worth it to just mix up some quikcrete for the lot of it.
    Where do the drains lead?
    You want those plugged up tight I don't know that I would build a whole floor system that isn't required, but thinking through plumbing and wiring before you get the floor in is a good idea

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