Building Homes or Extensions/Enclosing a carport

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Expert: - 3/1/2009


Question

Carport
Bruce,
I am getting ready to enclose my carport for additional GLA, however I want to pour a foundation to match the rest of the house. Can I pour a foundation on top of the existing concrete pad that is under the carport or do I have to bust out the old and pour footings and the whole nine yards?

Answer
Hi Heath, honestly?  You need to cut out the edges anyhow and dig your perimeter footings below grade.  Looking at your photo, if you put the foundation footing on top of your driveway then you will have some grading problems to cover up the footings.  Plus, if the existing footings are inadequate and you build on top of them and they settle on you?  I would suck it up and do a proper foundation on compacted soil.  I hope this information helps, feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 10Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    CommentThanks Bruce. I have concrete man comming today!


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Bruce E. Johnson

Expertise

I can answer any construction related question in regards to carpentry, concrete, drywall, masonry, structural elements of any type of building, residential or commercial. Interior or exterior.

Experience

Custom Commercial and residential buildings. Churches, theaters, schools and auditoriums. Most recently I am working with the Catholic Church on several design build committees. I have a website related to scheduling and project supervision. Although my expertise is more related to multimillion dollar commercial, educational and theatrical projects my generous credentials in residential and remodelling construction make me a viable source of information regarding all forms of building questions.

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