Everyone says you need a concrete slab for a studio, but my gravel base in Portland has been solid for 5 years.

I was at a local building supply place in Gresham and a contractor told me I was crazy for not pouring a slab, said it would shift and crack. I put down a 6-inch compacted gravel base with proper drainage instead. It saved me over $4,000 and I've had zero issues, even with our wet winters. Has anyone else skipped the slab and been fine long term?

2 comments

2 Comments

the_ray4d ago

Honestly, that contractor was probably just used to doing things one way. A well-built gravel pad with good compaction and drainage is a totally legit base, especially for a lighter structure. My uncle's had a big shed on one in Salem for over a decade with no sinking. The key is doing the prep right, which it sounds like you did.

danieljenkins4d ago

Yeah, some guys just hate gravel...