[Shotimes] Semi OT: concrete

ianf@eden.rutgers.edu ianf@eden.rutgers.edu
Wed, 17 Sep 2003 16:06:34 -0400 (EDT)


Ok
This isn't directly SHO related but it is related to my shed which I am 
trying to convert to a quasi workshop to work on my engines, storage, 
misc car repairs, etc.

My house and shed/garage were built in the 1920's. The floor is 
concrete with the exception of the center strip (which was supposed to 
catch the oil dripping from the 2 Model T Ford's that were probably 
stuffed in there at the time). This strip was filled with dirt and 
stone. 80 years later, that stagnant dirt smells pretty bad and is 
fairly dusty. I decided to dig it out (I am trying to keep it 4" deep 
although some areas are 3" and some are at 6"). I poured 3 60lb bags of 
Quickrete concrete into an area that's about 3 square feet. I know that 
I managed to get some dirt and stones into the mix but I don't recall 
how much since it was getting dark and I don't have electricity in 
there yet. That slab has hardened but it doesn't seem hard yet; its as 
if the top layer could flake up if it scratched at it hard enough. It's 
also still a dark grey color. Keep in mind that I poured this slab on 
Sunday and it was still like this as of Tuesday. 

The directions only said to add water. Should I have added sand? Am I 
worrying about nothing? Did I add too much water?I have about 12 more 
bags left to pour to finish the job (area is about 20'x2.5') so I want 
to do the rest properly. Is the dirt a problem?

Someone with more experience, please hit me back. I think that this 
could be a decent thread on the list since people have different ideas 
that could be discussed and it is car related for many of us...

thanks
Ian