I am pouring a garage foundation 8" thick, 7' deep. Building is 28'X13'?
Question:1. should I pour this in two lifts? I am using homemade forms with 2x4's and 3/4" plywood. I know what I'm doing, but never built this tall of wall. If yes what is the minimum time between lifts
2 The footer is 3' deep. Do I need a perimeter drain, or will positive grading be sufficient?
Answers:
As Long as you brace it well there won't be a problem. Do it in one pour it isn't a big one by no means,and it will be over in one shot.With two pours you will see it when finished, it won't look good. slope the ground away from the foundation to promote positive drainage.
There is no problem pouring in one lift so long as your forms are strong enough and you can properly vibrate. I would install a perimeter drain where I live but you should check with code for your own location.
There is not technical reason to go to two lifts, but there a good reason to go with one, it is hard to get bonding when pouring two lifts.
I think you can do it, but make sure to support your forms really well. That will be a lot of weight in the forms along with vibrating. I also think one pour would perform a lot better for you for stability. As for the perimeter drain, it may not be needed, but it is always a good precaution.
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