I just purchased new 5th wheeler that weighs 10k. . Live in central Fla in area with sugar sand. I want to construct a parking space about 20x50 ft, obviously larger than rig and plan to cover it w open metal carport. Concrete pad is very expensive. Asphalt killings has been recommended but I doubt will hold up with sugar sand. Suggestions on a base and thickness ? Would clay or fines material provide the best base? Or any suggestions? Or spring for a 5 inch concrete pad? The carport won't be load bearing on the pad. I'm just concerned about the 5th wheeler weight and my 3/4 ton pickup. All the weight will be in the same place every time I park it, the wheels. Thanks for any insight or suggestions.
I would suggest a gravel substrate with open pavers (they go by various names, mostly trademark for the same concept). A picture is a better description:
Scrape off the top layer of soil (save it to back fill between brick openings.) Go down 4-6 inches. Vibrating packing tool to get sand as firm as possible. 2-4 inches of gravel. Pack tightly. Place the pavers in the pattern. Back fill with the top soil and plant a ground cover of your choice.
This material does not heat sink the way concrete and especially Asphalt will. Living in Florida you may find that a benefit. It distributes the weight of the vehicle better than asphalt. It allows water to run down into the soil without creating run off issues. It allows for a more natural look with ground cover interspaced. I don't know Florida's construction market, but am betting it will be a lot cheaper than concrete and even asphalt.
Jack
Thanks very much for this great idea. I have talked to a lot of folks about this and this is the BEST solution anyone has suggested. It solves all the issues and I am betting it will be the most cost effective of all the options. THANKS again. Ken
I think this would be good for all the reasons given, exept that if the trailer parks in the same spot every time, the load will still not be distributed farther than 8" or so from the tires. Depending on the actual loads, I would expect the pavers under the wheels to sink over time. If you can identify the correct locations before building the surface, adding an extra layer staggered with respect to the surface layer's joints may spread the load enough.
I'm not directly familiar with "sugar sand", but it sounds like a material that will never truly compact solid.
The house I grew up in had a ribbon driveway: 2 narrow parallel concrete strips about 15-18" wide. That might distribute the weight at a lower cost than a fully paved area.
You are both correct and appreciate the ideas. Actually found out using the concrete pavers was just too cost prohibitive. Can pour solid concrete cheaper. Even found similar plastic devices similar but also pricey. I am going to go with 6 inch recycled concrete 57 stone but the recycled curbs is intriguing if I can find something like that. Great base for using the 57 stone. Sure appreciate the input. Great forum
Thanks
Ken
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