Good points about gravel and rebar. I'd also suggest compacting the gravel layer really well before pouring—makes a huge difference in stability. I skipped that step once thinking gravity would handle it, and ended up with cracks within a year. Also, don't underestimate good drainage around the slab perimeter... standing water can undermine even the best prep work. Learned that lesson after a particularly rainy spring.
"Also, don't underestimate good drainage around the slab perimeter... standing water can undermine even the best prep work."
Totally agree about drainage—it's easy to overlook when you're focused on the slab itself. Did you consider adding a slight slope away from the foundation to help move water along naturally? I've found that even subtle grading adjustments can make a noticeable difference. Also, curious if anyone's tried landscape fabric beneath the gravel layer to keep soil from mixing in over time... thoughts on that?
Good points on drainage and grading. I've personally skipped landscape fabric under gravel before—mostly due to budget—but honestly, I regretted it later. After a couple years, the gravel started sinking into the soil, and weeds became a real nuisance. Has anyone found a cost-effective alternative to landscape fabric that still keeps things stable long-term? I'd be interested in hearing experiences on that front.
"After a couple years, the gravel started sinking into the soil, and weeds became a real nuisance."
Interesting point, but from my experience, landscape fabric isn't always the silver bullet it's made out to be. I've seen situations where weeds still managed to poke through eventually, and the fabric itself deteriorated over time. A decent alternative I've used successfully is compacted crushed stone or road base beneath the gravel layer—it's affordable, stable long-term, and significantly reduces weed growth without relying on fabric. Might be worth considering next time around...
Interesting idea about crushed stone, but wouldn't that still eventually let weeds through once dust and dirt settle into the gravel layer? I mean, I've tried something similar before, and after a couple of years, nature found a way again... Maybe pairing it with a thicker gravel layer or occasional maintenance could help? Not sure there's ever a truly weed-proof solution, honestly.
