Below or above ground concrete slab

[wrestlsimp]

I am building a 24w 48L 12H shop. It requires a foundation due to >1000sqft due to building laws in my area. My question is, I know the foundation needs to be 2 ft down in my area, should I put the slab lower on the ground or right at ground level. I won't be parking cars in the building, so having concrete at level wouldn't matter, I'm just wondering if I can save by shortening the sidewalls? Also wouldn't this help with heat being deeper down?

Will be using building for playroom, gym, storage, climbing wall - my idea of a fun house .

Any input is greatly appreciated.

 

[rburke65]

I like being high and dry myself.

 

[Falcon67]

I've had nothing but trouble with anything built at or below grade that wasn't engineered (stem wall, etc) to prevent water intrusion. IBC says 6" above grade, IIRC. That is also the usual call around here although with a proper lot prep 4" is OK because we don't get much rain.

 

[brownbagg]

you still have to be a certain height about grade, here its one foot

 

[kbs2244]

In addition to a very good job of perimeter drains, pay a lot of attention to the idea of oversized and well aimed gutters and downspouts.