conneting concrete slabs

[mhmdcb]

When adding a concrete slab to an exisiting structure, should the new slab be "tied" into the exisiting structure? The thought is that if the slab is "tied" to the exisiting stucture any settlement between the two would not show up at the finished floor as a joint or raised area. The other three sides of the slab would be free to "float".

 

[SlideRuleEra]

In most cases, I would not connect the two. If differential settlement occurs, the load applied to the connections can damage the new slab, the old slab, or both. Better to make sure the subgrade for the new slab is well prepared to minimize settlement and not worry about a connection.

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