Expert: Daniel Humphrey - 3/22/2008

Question
I am planning to convert large opening in a storage shed built on concrete slab into a wall with smaller door. The climate can result in freezing. How far apart should the anchors into the concrete be spaced? Should the anchors be sealed somehow to prevent water from entering under the sill and into the anchor holes, freezing and fracturing the concrete? Can I begin the project before the ground and concrete warms?

Answer
Jack,

Typically, the anchors are placed every five feet and near openings and corners. If you know the layout of the wall framing, you can put an anchor every four feet, next to a stud so that you can use an angled tiedown bracket on the stud as well as holding down the plate.

To keep water out, you can use epoxy in the anchor holes. I also use a fibered mastic such as roof patch to bed the sill plate down.

You should be able to start this when the ground is frozen, but make sure there is no frost heave when you sheathe the wall and set the door.

Daniel