What Should I do?

[gdchapma]

Well, I got my garage started and have it up to this point. (pics.) Due to several factors; I am going to have to leave it at this point until the spring. What should I do to keep the WV winters from damaging anything that is done so far? Any suggestions are appreciated.

Thanks,
GDC

 

[dink]

Well based on the picture I dont see much loose stuff....so I really dont know...tarp the whole thing up?

All I am seeing is concrete and some 2 x 4's

 

[TOMWELDS]

Tarp it so water wont heave in the freezing winter month's

 

[MacTexas]

I have no educated suggestion but I am curious what size is the footprint. Looks like a really good start.

My non educated opinion is to just leave it alone with the exception of making sure the drain is sealed so no water will enter and freeze.

 

[The Hot Rod Grille]

Welcome aboard from a fellow West Virginian! Where in WV do you live? If you happen to be near Charleston or Huntington, feel free to stop by my garage in Winfield, called The Hot Rod Grille (pics in the Gallery Section). Re. your question, I agree with the other posters suggesting that you put a tarp over it. Good luck with your project!

Jim Winter
The Hot Rod Grille Garage

 

[REFLEXX]

Ummm...


basketball hoops till the snow comes....

then fill it with 2" of water for an ice rink!

Seriously, I'd imagine some heavy duty plastic? or the best advice is to ask the homebuilders in the area.


REFLEXX

 

[gdchapma]

I was just worried about water getting in the cracks of the concrete and busting it up. The garage will be 36' x 28' x 12'. It will also have a partial upstairs approx. 18' x 28' full height. I live in Fayette Co. (about 50 miles south of Charleston.) Jim, I have family in Culloden, WV , is that close to you? I would love to see your garage, I have drooled over it on here often.

Thanks,
GDC

 

[realz]

If you don't have backfill higher than the floor slab to put pressure on the foundation walls, the foundation will be fine without any extra precautions. But the sill plates on top of the foundation walls will need some attention. I would recomend numbering the locations and removing them. Then put them someplace out of the elemets.

Iowa carpenter.....

 

[MXtras]

Yup - I agree - remove the sills and cover the tops of the block (unless they are solid) with heavy plastic.

If you are worried about the expansion joints (not visible in pic), you could run a bead of caulk in them then either pull it out or leave it. I would not waste my time with a tarp - it will not last the winter and the pooled water will find its way out anyway.

Seal the floor to keep it from staining, then pressure wash before you start construction in the spring.

Looks like a nice start!!! We will be looking for a build documentary in the spring, BTW.

Just my opinion....

Scott

 

[The Hot Rod Grille]

Hi GDC,

Culloden is roughly 15 miles from Winfield. Let me know when you plan to visit your family, and I will invite you over to The Hot Rod Grille for a root beer float at the garage's soda fountain and a few games of pinball. One of the joys of having a garage is having folks drop by to enjoy it!

Jim Winter
The Hot Rod Grille Garage