Help with base please?

[wombats]

I recently posted for the cost to build a shed, but now have decided to go with a concrete sectional shed.

I have read quite a few posts on concrete but still need some help.

The size of the base would need to be 12ft 6 x 8ft 6

First of all do i need to put down hardcore and if so which type or are they all the same?

How much would need to buy to cover this area?

Do i need to put wire mesh stuff down to reinforce it (not sure of proper name) and what size?

Also how much concrete would i need if i went for a ready mix?

Any help is greatfully appreciated.

 

[RedHerring2]

150mm of MOT type 1, well compacted ('to refusal' is the terminology).
Three Jumbo bags should do it.

1.8 m³ of concrete 150mm thick again with mesh (A142) half way down.
Sit the mesh on bits of broken slabs or similar to maintain the correct height.

 

[wombats]

Thanks for the reply RedHerring2 now i just need to price it up.

I have just had a quote for someone to do the job, does £365 without mesh sound too cheap or would this be about right?

 

[RedHerring2]

Sounds too cheap to me.
£35 per bag of MOT type 1 = £105
2 M³ of concrete approx £250

Total Materials £355 excl A142

 

[wombats]

Sounds too cheap to me.

That's what i thought.

Got another quote from another builder which was £1,400. From 1 extreme to the other.

Why can't i find a decent builder that is going to do a decent job but not rip me off?

 

[noseall]

What makes you so sure that £1400 is a rip-off? Have you prepared a spec' so that all quotes are like for like?

We can not see your job so are unaware of the logistics involved.

The best thing to do is use recommended builders and get at least 3 quotes.

 

[wombats]

Spec is as RedHerring2 shows in his post.

The best thing to do is use recommended builders and get at least 3 quotes.

How do i know who the recommended builers are?

 

[noseall]

Speak to relatives or friends or neighbours and ask them.

 

[wombats]

Decided to go for it and do it myself with a liitle advice from you guys.

I have spoke to the supplier of the concrete shed and he says the base should be...

12' 6 X 8' 6
4" Hardcore
4" Concrete

What will i need for this size (slightly less than stated earlier)

(How much?)....
Concrete (will be readmix)
Hardcore
Shuttering what size Length, width, depth
Welded fabric (mesh)

 

[wombats]

Anyone help me out here please?

I need to start the job this week hopefully.

 

[wombats]

Do i only need 25mm thick boards to make the shuttering or should it be thicker?

 

[Hugh Jaleak]

Calculators here: http://www.pavingexpert.com/calcall.htm#focus04

I'd work out approx quantity of concrete needed, then look for a supplier with a 'Volumetric' batching lorry. These bring the sand, aggregate, and cement along dry, then the lorry adds the water and mixes on site. It'll make as much as you need (subject to ingredient capacity on lorry), no shortages/no wastage.

I'd say 25mm planks would be fine for shuttering, make sure back edge is secured firmly so it cant move. Need enough to do all 4 sides.