When it comes to a concrete slab, there are three major components to consider; the subgrade, the concrete slab and the concrete base, each vital in providing the appropriate strength and support to hold your concrete in place, prevent crack and splinters, and ensure the soil beneath isn’t compromised.
What’s A Concrete Base?
The layer between the subgrade (existing soil), and the concrete slab, the concrete base is typically constructed of crushed rock and/or aggregates and acts as a support between the existing soil and the concrete slab. The concrete base helps to reduce the cracking of the slab, offering support and strength in both design and application.
Why Do I Need One?
In simple terms; you need a concrete base to offer strength and support to your soil and slab, or else you will risk an ineffective, unstable foundation. Your concrete slab will crack and splinter under pressure without the additional support of a concrete base, so it’s imperative you put it in place to help prolong the lifespan of your concrete slab. Let’s take a closer look at the key reasons to use concrete bases:
Reduces Settlement
The layer of soil that exists beneath your concrete slab is constantly shifting, so it’s vital to install a concrete base in between the soil and the concrete slab helps to absorb the differential movement within the soil. This will reduce the risk of your concrete slab cracking, providing further strength and support.
Promotes Drainage
A key aspect of integrating a base between your soil and the concrete slab is to prevent soil from washing away. When soil washes away, your concrete slab won’t have the appropriate levels of strength to support itself. This will quickly lead to cracking and sinking. A concrete base constructed of aggregates, particularly gravel, will allow runoff the pass through the gravel and maintain your concrete’s strength and support, reducing the risk of cracks.
What Materials Are Used?
The primary material(s) used in the creation of concrete for construction purposes will typically be a form of crushed stone or a combination of two or more. Crushed gravel is a commonly used stone for aggregates in concrete construction, though it’s generally recommended that you use a combination of both coarse and fine aggregates to create the most suitable composition.
Are you looking for a concrete base in Central Scotland? The experts at Forth Valley Concrete specialise in supplying and laying premium concrete bases for sheds and garages. We supply concrete shed and garage foundations across Glasgow, Edinburgh, Falkirk, Hamilton, Motherwell and beyond. Get in touch with our team today.