Expert: jonewall - 9/12/2009

Question
QUESTION: My son has a house that is about 100 years old with mostly a dirt floor. He would like to 'cover' the dirt to keep the dust and moisture down and use the space for storage. The estimate from a concrete company was fairly high, so he is considering a DIY project. He would level and tamp the dirt, cover it with heavy plastic sheeting, put down a 2 or 3 inch sand base, and then use concrete pavers #18 inch square more or less#. I do not think he has much of moisture problem, its just dirty. Does this sound at all reasonable- to finish a basement more or less the same way as an outside area?  Thanks so much for any help or ideas.

ANSWER: Dear Herb
I would like to give you the right answer to your question.here are my thoughts

1.Is the floor in a basement
2 You mention moisture  one must consider moisture and frost/cold weather climates
3 The condition of the sub-base
4 The resale value of the type of floor you will install
5 The weight that would  be placed on the floor
6 Will the slab require wire mesh reinforcing
7 The type of finish on the floor can effect costs
8 The thickness of the floor required  (usually a min of 4" )

Local contractors are helpful in helping you to determine a good way of accomplishing your goals.There are many factors to consider in making your decision.If you have received bids from at least 3 experienced contractors, you can get a  fairly good idea of the costs.
If considering diy project ,start with an estimate on what it will costs you to do the work your self.
A far out idea would be to hire an experienced cement finisher ,get some help to place the concrete and do the job. Wishing you the best

IF YOU HAVE ANY FURTHER QUESTIONS FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME .

JONEWALL

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you Jonewall for your thorough answer. From your questions, I realized my question was not complete. I was talking about a (Pennsylvania) basement floor that is below any frost line and the dampness is minimal. Your answer reflected a bit of professional courtesy to professional contractors, while my son is seeking a DIY solution. Your suggestion of estimating the costs is a good one, and should be easy to do. Being a storage basement project, he can shop for products on sale with little concern for the appearance.
Thanks again.

Herb

Answer
Herb

Anytime you consider spending money to attempt a project,I always would keep in mind  how much of a $$$$$ return is possible in the future.

If there is a future possibility that the basement space could be used for a recreation room or living area,consider your investment.

A 100 year old house could be a treasure ,living in one built in those times lacked insulation and other modern day plumbing ,electrical and most likely (asbestos?? ) plaster was used on walls and ceilings.

There are federal  government grants and loans available to modernize to upgrade to energy efficient buildings.Check it out .

Just a thought to consider.

Regards, jonewall

PS I have written articles on ezines.com about homeowners improvements under jon ewall expert author