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ChootarLaal 08-22-2012 09:48 AM

Replacing dirt basement floor with concrete slab
I have a stone foundation house (built in 1840) and part of the foundation is dirt. It had a wood floor which was riddled with mold and water issues. So the plan is to rip up the wooden floor and pour a foundation, but there is dirt underneath.

How deep do I need to dig the dirt for the concrete? The water seems to come in through the floor rather than the stone walls. Can I install a 10mil vapor barrier under the concrete or is there another way to achieve the water barrier?

Does there also need to be gravel under the vapor barrier? Does this mean I have to dig it deeper to accommodate for the gravel?

I will have pics later tonight.

joecaption 08-22-2012 10:07 AM

A lot more to this then just poring a slab and the water stops going even with a vaper barrier.

How far is it now from the floor to the bottom of the floor joist? (just a rough average)
Your going to need a drain system, sump pump.

I'd never suggest anyone DIY there own slab floor. Sounds like a simple job, but there a whole lot of factors that if done wrong the slab becomes worthless. It's aone shot deal.

What you need to do is find a concrete finisher, that's the trade that does nothing but slabs, walkway ect. Any concrete supply company should be able to give you some leads.
