Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 3/6/2009

Question
I would like to close in my garage for more living area.  The current slab is 4" below the living area slab so I want to raise the carport slab even with the living area slab.  The walls that will meet with the new addition have brick so I would like to have brick ledge on the new walls.  In addition both of the edges of the garage are currently met by cement.  Can you give some advice on forming up this slab in order to have adequate footings for the brick ledge.


Answer
Hi Jim, I understand about raising up your slab the 4" but the rest of your question confuses me.  If you already have concrete butting into the outside walls then why do you need to pour more concrete to support the brick?  One thing you will need to remember when forming up for your slab is that garage slabs slope several inches so if you want this floor to be level you will need to be high enough with your formwork at the outside to make up the difference.  I hope this information helps feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com