Porch concrete slab

Richard tea

Hello all, I recently had a porch fitted. I need to fill in the area with concrete. Just wondering what the best method is. Do I need damp proof course? Should I just fill with concrete or part fill with that foam insulation board?

There is very little clearance from the bottom of the porch door when opened to the original step so I have to be careful here. Any suggestions?

Thanks

IMG_20230712_095946.jpg

whizbang

Well fitted rigid insulation board, then 60 - 100mm concrete.

I would tend to the thicker side, but if the insulation sits down very tightly to the existing surface, you could use much less thickness.

if you have no space over the step, then you probably wont be thinking floor coverings, so maybe plan for a fine finish micro or epoxy etc

Mellor

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120853181#Comment_120853181

Insulation would achieve much here. The porch is not heated an outside the thermal envelope.

OP, you'll need to demolish the original step. Might have been to install a concrete plinth prior to the porch

Richard tea

Why demolish the original step? Can I not just fill up to the level of the step and then pour epoxy or self leveling cement?

An issue you will face is there will be no foundation for the new slab. If the ground is not firm it will pull away from the house wall and leave a gap and stress the porch causing potential sesperation and broken glazing. If you look at many paths around houses they almost always do this because they are just laid on grade.

The solution might be to create mini piles along the front deep enough to reach subsoil. These need not be big but would need to be tied to the slab with reinforcing bar.

This is exactly the scenario I am facing withy own house and this is the solution I propose to use. You will also have to ensure you do not compromise the house damp proof course and since this will be on the front of your house maybe subject to planning permission regardless of its size.