Cellar floor

[noseall]

Make sure there is no risk of undermining any walls etc....

 

[Antony higo]

I'd thought about that. I'm going to be digging down about 8 inches. Would I have any issues with the foundations digging that deep?

 

[oldbutnotdead]

I'd thought about that. I'm going to be digging down about 8 inches. Would I have any issues with the foundations digging that deep?

Depends on your foundations. Do a test hole next to a wall, dig down to required depth. If you hit a brick step that'll probably be the bottom of your wall, don't dig below it.

 

[Antony higo]

I've now got it all dug out. Can anyone tell me what the best type of hardcore and Sand is to use as I've read there's different sorts. Thanks.

 

[Ian H]

Mine was solid and stony so I just used sand. Some building, some grit because that’s what I had knocking around.

 

[Antony higo]

I was going to put 2" of hardcore and 2" of sand. Wondering now after what you've said if I can just double up the thickness of sand and not bother with hardcore. Cheers Ian.

 

[Ian H]

You might be able to wack 4” of MOT down smooth, that might be better than thick sand.

Mine was only maybe an inch thick

 

[Antony higo]

Hi all. I'm putting insulation on top of my sand. Can anyone tell me if I have to seal the gaps between the boards with tape or can I just pour the concrete straight on?

 

[Tigercubrider]

I believe that you use tape, otherwise water in the mix can get underneath and potentially the insulation begins to float. Might be worth a second DPC membrane?

 

[Ian H]

I foamed any gaps, taped them then put another plastic sheet over

 

[Antony higo]

Hi guys, thanks for all the replies. My floor is finished now. I appreciated all the advice. My next task is doing my roof (in the cellar). My living room floor gets really cold so I'm going to insulate it. I'm getting different advice on the best way to do this though. I've been told to put 100mm kingspan board up against the floor boards then put standard plasterboard over it. But someone else says the best way to go is insulated plasterboard. Has anyone got any advice/experience on which way to go? Thanks.

 

[JohnD]

I foamed any gaps, taped them then put another plastic sheet over
View attachment 182681

View attachment 182682

is that where your secret door leads?

 

[Antony higo]

John D is that supposed to be funny?

 

[JohnD]

yes, of course.

 

[Ian H]

is that where your secret door leads?

Yes, I’m in there now watching The Interview