Water Tanks on Existing Slab
Water Tanks on Existing Slab
(OP)
Hello,
I was wondering if anyone could please provide me some advice or suggestions.
Our client would like to install 2 flat bottom water tanks (approx. 3m in diameter and 3m high) into an existing building. There is an existing slab on grade within the building (200mm thick) and the client is pushing for us to build up the existing slab to form a pad foundation. Typically we would break out the existing slab and pour an isolated footing for the tank, however I am wondering what the risks may be if we were just to build up the existing slab since the load is relatively small.
I would imagine that there may be increased cracking and settlement around the tank location. Can anyone provide any insight into whether or not this is advisable?
Thanks!
I was wondering if anyone could please provide me some advice or suggestions.
Our client would like to install 2 flat bottom water tanks (approx. 3m in diameter and 3m high) into an existing building. There is an existing slab on grade within the building (200mm thick) and the client is pushing for us to build up the existing slab to form a pad foundation. Typically we would break out the existing slab and pour an isolated footing for the tank, however I am wondering what the risks may be if we were just to build up the existing slab since the load is relatively small.
I would imagine that there may be increased cracking and settlement around the tank location. Can anyone provide any insight into whether or not this is advisable?
Thanks!






RE: Water Tanks on Existing Slab
One thing that's always bothered me about adding loads to slabs on grade is assessing the bearing capacity of the soil. I'm not sure that slab on grade substrates get geotechnically blessed for real bearing loads the way that regular foundations do. One would think that the granular fill and careful compaction would be an improvement upon native soil conditions. I'll be curious to hear what others think on this front.
I like to debate structural engineering theory -- a lot. If I challenge you on something, know that I'm doing so because I respect your opinion enough to either change it or adopt it.
RE: Water Tanks on Existing Slab
I will be sure to document my concerns as you suggest.
Thanks for your help!
RE: Water Tanks on Existing Slab
RE: Water Tanks on Existing Slab
3m = about 650 psf
I don't think i would worry about it, but I would still run with Kootk's suggestions.
RE: Water Tanks on Existing Slab
We've got sandtraps here that would support 750psf allowable.
RE: Water Tanks on Existing Slab
RE: Water Tanks on Existing Slab
RE: Water Tanks on Existing Slab
RE: Water Tanks on Existing Slab
Just caulk the sawcut after.
RE: Water Tanks on Existing Slab
I like to debate structural engineering theory -- a lot. If I challenge you on something, know that I'm doing so because I respect your opinion enough to either change it or adopt it.