How do I make a reinforced concrete slab foundation?

Question

I have to support a concrete block structure that has a concrete slab roof. I'm not sure of the exact loads.

I'm not entirely sure how to mix and pour the concrete, but I know the ingredients.

And I think I need some sort of steel mesh? Is that right? And how do I lay it in there?

Oh also, I need to build a wood frame.

But is there anything else I didn't mention?

Answer 1

This really depends upon the size of the structure your building!

More over it depends upon where you are in the world, in the UK we'd do it by digging out foundations to around 1.8m around the perimeter and under any supporting walls or columns, then (in some situations) pour the slab over top of the foundations and incorporate the lot with re-mesh (as you say a steel bar mesh).

In Australia they simply dig out a slab one foot bigger than their planned base, fill the hole with sand and then dig out their planned final shape, then thy pour their concrete into the new sandy hole.

Again in response to your idea of mixing the concrete, depending on the size i would buy the concrete as ready mix and simply have it poured.

Finally, depending where you are you may be able to get a contractor to come round your house and give you a free estimate, now this is the important bit, if you pay attention to what he says and ask him exactly what he is quoting to do you'll get a good idea of what you need to do, then simply phone him latter and explain that your not interested in his quote!