can you use an existing concrete slab for a small roof addition

** Can That Old Concrete Slab Manage Your Dream Roofing Addition? **.

(can you use an existing concrete slab for a small roof addition)

Thinking of adding a little roof to your home? Maybe a relaxing protected patio or a sunroom? If you’ve obtained an old concrete slab kicking back, you might wonder: can it really support a brand-new framework? The answer isn’t a basic yes or no. Allow’s simplify.

Initially, inspect the piece’s problem. Concrete lasts a long period of time, but it’s not unyielding. Seek fractures, uneven surfaces, or collapsing sides. Tiny hairline fractures could not be a huge offer. Wide gaps or areas that droop? Those are red flags. Water damages or frost heave can deteriorate concrete gradually. If the piece appears like it’s been with a battle, it’s most likely not an excellent candidate.

Next, think about what the slab was constructed for. Was it originally a patio area, driveway, or foundation? Patio area slabs are usually thinner– possibly 4 inches thick. Driveways might be thicker, around 5-6 inches. Structures are also tougher. A slab indicated for light use will not deal with the weight of a roofing system without assistance. Roofing systems include dead tons (the framework itself) and live tons (snow, wind, people). Even a little roofing needs correct assistance.

Now, think about the weight. A fundamental wooden roof covering frame with asphalt tiles evaluates about 15-20 pounds per square foot. Add snow load, which number can increase. If your piece is 4 inches thick, it may hold 50 extra pounds per square foot– but that’s if it’s in best shape. Older slabs could crack under pressure. You do not want your brand-new roof to develop into a collapse danger.

Building regulations matter too. Neighborhood guidelines dictate how frameworks have to be built. Even if your piece appears alright, assessors could need upgrades. Grounds– deep concrete assistances under the ground– are often needed to support roofings. Pieces without grounds can change or sink. Retrofitting footings to an existing piece isn’t difficult, but it’s unpleasant. You’ll need to reduce into the concrete, dig trenches, and pour new assistances.

Suppose the slab passes inspection? You still may require supports. Steel beams or enlarged edges can spread the roof’s weight. Concrete piers or sonotubes (cardboard types full of concrete) added around the slab’s boundary can assist. Often, an architectural engineer’s input deserves the cost. They’ll compute lots, inspect soil problems, and area troubles you could miss.

Expense is another aspect. Using an old piece sounds more affordable than putting brand-new concrete. But fixings or supports build up. Contrast prices: a brand-new piece with appropriate grounds may set you back $5-$ 10 per square foot. Fixing an old one can strike $3-$ 7 per square foot– plus extra if surprises turn up.

Don’t forget drain. Roofings straight water somewhere. If your piece slopes towards your home, rain may merge against the structure. Regrading the yard or including drains pipes might enter into the task.

(can you use an existing concrete slab for a small roof addition)

Basically, an existing slab * can * work– if it’s solid, thick, and steady. Obtain a professional to examine it. Consider repair work, codes, and concealed prices. In some cases, starting fresh conserves headaches later on. Other times, that old piece is a solid structure for your brand-new area. In either case, preparing beats thinking. Your desire roof covering deserves a solid begin.