Determining Existing Slab Thickness?

[Flavert]

I am looking at a number of new homes with already existing garages. I am trying to figure out the best way to determine the thickness and composition of the existing slab. Most of these homes are empty, so asking the previous owner isn't going to work. Any suggestions?

Thanks,
Rick L.

 

[Zeke]

You would have to core sample for determining the strength. You can drill a hole to determine thickness. Be careful of any pre-stressed slabs! If you don't know about that, ask.

 

[cderalow]

find yourself a ground penetrating radar unit and use that.

should give you an idea of thickness, depth of wire mesh, if there's any serious reinforcement.

won't tell you what the mix is, but it at least gives you dimensional info.

 

[Zeke]

Think they have those down at the rental yard?

 

[skamp]

This might work for you. Not super cheap but also not crazy expensive.

http://www.milwaukeetool.com/test-a...ls/sub-scanner-m12-detection-tool-kit/2291-21

Steve

 

[RECox286]

If the slab is at least 1 year old, get a 1" core sample out of an inconspicuous

spot, and have it crush tested. You can do this yourself with a hydraulic

press, but you will be guessing at the pressure it takes to destroy the

sample.'' There is little chance that the slab is any more than contractor

grade 2k to 4k pound footing mix with 4x4 wire in it. Nobody specifies

special stuff for residences, it is just too expensive to do for a price.

Uncle Bob