There’s usually a lot to keep track of when planning for a pre-fabricated metal building. It’s one of the top reasons why so many customers prefer to work with Miracle Truss® and take advantage of the kit approach.
Basically, everything you need is pre-fabricated at the factory based on your customized design, and then delivered to your property. One thing—and it’s a big thing—that’s not included is the concrete slab. It’s not absolutely necessary to attach your Miracle Truss® building to a concrete slab, but many people prefer this approach—especially if they intend to finish the insides.
Is it Concrete or Cement?
Here’s a quick cheat-sheet for you if you choose to have a slab on which to build your Miracle Truss® DIY building.
While it’s true that concrete and cement are often used interchangeably, cement is actually just an ingredient of concrete. It’s usually about 10% to 15% of the concrete mix.
Cement is made of limestone, shells, silica, and clay. These materials are crushed into a fine powder, and then additional ingredients are added. One of them is actually iron ore. Finally, the powder is heated to about 2,700 degrees. Afterwards, this substance, which is called “clinker,” is again ground into powder.
The most common version of this powder is called Portland cement. It takes its name from the person who first made it, back in the 1800s. His name was Joseph Aspdin. After he created it, he decided it had the same color as stone from the quarries on the island of Portland, which is off the coast of England.
The rest is a mixture of aggregates like sand and rock. When the mix hardens, it binds the aggregates into a hard-as-rock mass. What most people don’t realize is that this process continues for years. Your concrete slab gets stronger as it gets older.
Concrete is pretty amazing stuff. It starts out as a dry mixture. But, when water is added, it becomes a liquid and flexible material that will flow into any mold or shape.
Ready to Go
You can buy ready-made concrete mixes In bags. It already has the appropriate mixture of cement, sand, and gravel. All you have to do is add the correct amount of water.
If you’re planning to have a concrete slab, though, you likely won’t be going the route of buying these ready-made bags. You’ll want to work with a professional company who will make the arrangements to prepare the slab for you.
As you plan your new Miracle Truss® building, the team will work with you to provide all the information you’ll pass on to the company that’ll pour your concrete slab for you. You’ll assemble the trusses right on the completed slab and then bolt them into place. Take a look at the process here. You can also watch this video to learn more about why Miracle Truss® designs are the best choice for your new building.
