Bricks, Masonry, Asphalt and Concrete - do you need gravel under a spa pad?

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luckydriver
11-12-04, 05:22 PM
If you are pouring a 12x12 pad for a spa (6 inches deep and the ground is uneven but has been very compacted down) do you need gravel underneath?

if yes, why?

if not, why not?

and do you need expansion joints?

chfite
11-12-04, 06:49 PM
Gravel for drainage. Expansion joints for expansion without cracking the slab.
luckydriver
11-13-04, 05:28 AM
so i can assume you'd have a low opinion of a contractor that didn't use gravel? i do plan on grading away from the pad no matter what so hopefully that will help and he truly knows what he is doing and this doesn't crack down the road

Hellrazor
11-13-04, 07:55 AM
You should have a stone base under the cement pad.
luckydriver
11-14-04, 07:58 AM
ok so i guess i'll just have to go back and make him fix it when it cracks in a few years :( no gravel or expansion)