Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 4/13/2009

Question
I would like to build a concrete patio in my back yard that extends the length of my house to be able to add on a Kitchen and Master Suite addition later on a portion of the patio. Is this possible and is it wise to prepare a foundation in this manner.. Also what should I look out for with regards to the additional weight to support the structure if we were to build the addition on top of the concrete.

Answer
HI Relonda, a concrete patio will have different characteristics than a concrete floor.  Patios have to slope away from the house so that water doesn't run inside the house or stand on the slab and get nasty.  Floors have to be level.  You can do a monolithic slab which is basically a slab with a thickened edge that will support future building potential.  But as I said, pouring a flat slab outside your house will not drain properly in the rainy season to use it as a patio unless you keep after it and keep the water off of it.  I hope this information helps feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com