FINISHING

The final steps in the garage building process is finishing.



We will start by removing the soil and preparing a compact, level area. This will help to avoid settling later on. From there we can build a block foundation or set a form to pour concrete. Getting exact measurements, we mark the edges and corners, run any drainage, and frame out exactly where the slab will be. A layer of 4-6 inches of gravel will be placed within the form. For larger garages digging trenches may be necessary to install footings, which are extra prevention against settling. Steel mesh or rebar will then be placed to give the slab extra strength.

The next step is pouring the concrete. Working from one side to the other we shovel and move the wet concrete as we go, insuring it is spread evenly and all gaps are filled. The concrete is leveled with the top of the frame and use a float to remove any air pockets. Anchor bolts will be placed for later support of the building frame. As the concrete begins to set, the edges and corners are troweled. After 2 days the forms can be removed. A poured slab foundation then has to cure, which can typically take a week before light work can start and up to 28 days if heavier materials are being used. After curing and before framing, we will check for any cracks and make sure the ground around the edge of the foundation has sufficient slope for proper drainage.