Building a wood floor over gravel

[Ed Evans]

I've got a detached garage with a gravel floor. With the car in it, I
have a ~7x20 space at the end. I'd like to build a wooden floor in
this space where I'd have a flat, sturdy (albiet small) spot to run a
few wood working tools.

I'd really appreciate any tips from you folks. My initial inclination
was to build it like a deck, with in-ground concrete supports, but is
that overkill?

Cheers,

-Ed Evans

[Thomas G. Baker]

Ed Evans wrote:

Assuming you have head room, I'd consider raising the floor for
separation from the gravel. The concrete supports sound like a good
idea. My concerns would be termites, powder post beetles, and dry rot.
One could try treated 4x4 sleepers if the ground is dry and termites are
not a problem.

TB

[Lazenby]

Build a conventional wood joist platform, with 2x6 joists at 24" (or 16") oc
the short direction. Use 2x6 rim joist. Level your gravel and cover with
poly vapor barrier. Support the whole thing on concrete bricks laid flat at
each corner and a couple more in the long direction, either shimming or
using the gravel to level. the bricks or the platform. Easier if you level
the platform before installing your flooring material.

Depending on the machinery you're intending, the 2x6's are quite adequate.
You might double up or more closely space directly under heavier or
vibrating machinery locations. Also, you can add some brick supports
according.

I would use all PT framing materials. Virtually no cost difference for wood
grade recommended.

[JD]

Why not get an estimate on pouring a concrete slab in the whole garage? The
cost difference may surprise you and you'll have a nicer garage.

--

"Ed Evans" <my_spa...@yahoo.com> wrote in message
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