Eric's WFO build Newbie Forum Discuss Eric's WFO build in the Good Background Information forums; The beach sand was for the hi temp mortar home brew, but I think that I have decided against it. ...

[eprante]

The beach sand was for the hi temp mortar home brew, but I think that I have decided against it.
E

[eprante]

was able to pour the foundation last weekend with thanks to my son, nephew and father in law for the help. Hopefully I can upload the picture.
Eric

[ThisOldGarageNJ]

Hey Eric,
Welcome to the club,,, so many people dont realize how much work goes into a proiect like this,, even as your seeing the "simple" digging for the foundation is a pain.. I hit a few roots too...

But, It looks like your off to a great start...

Cheers and keep going
Mark

[eprante]

Thanks Mark, a load of block for the stand and prep area are being delivered today. It will be nice to be working above ground so my family can actually appreciate that there is progress being made.
Eric

[Neil2]

Do you have a construction joint across the "wings" of your slab" ?

If not it will crack there. To control the cracking, you can cut surface construction joints using a angle grinder, a thin cut off blade and a straight edge. Cut about 3/8 inch deep.

[eprante]

Thanks for the heads up Neil. Do I cut the surface construction joint along the line of the main slab? I am learning new stuff everyday with this project.

Eric

[ThisOldGarageNJ]

hey eric,,
Neil brings up a good point... here's a good link to help you out,, and it explains way better than I can

Cheers
MarkConcrete Joints - Types, Placing Tips & Appearance Concerns with Construction Joints - The Concrete Network

[Les]

Yes - that is where you want it. I would also suggest using a skill saw with a masonry blade. It will be a little easier to control then an angle grinder. Great suggestion though, you always want to control the cracks.

Les...

[eprante]

Thanks Les and Neil. I have a circular saw and can get a masonry blade( I probably should own a masonry blade- can't have too many tools), that sounds much easier than the angle grinder.
E

[geisen]

Eric
Looks like a great start. You will want to take a lot of pictures, it will help as folks ask how you did it. and besides, we like to live vicariously.
regards
greg