Everyone says you need a concrete slab for a studio, but my gravel base in Portland has been solid for 5 years. | Backyard Studios - The Design Community Hub
Everyone says you need a concrete slab for a studio, but my gravel base in Portland has been solid for 5 years.
I was at a local building supply place in Gresham and a contractor told me I was crazy for not pouring a slab, said it would shift and crack. I put down a 6-inch compacted gravel base with proper drainage instead. It saved me over $4,000 and I've had zero issues, even with our wet winters. Has anyone else skipped the slab and been fine long term?
Honestly, that contractor was probably just used to doing things one way. A well-built gravel pad with good compaction and drainage is a totally legit base, especially for a lighter structure. My uncle's had a big shed on one in Salem for over a decade with no sinking. The key is doing the prep right, which it sounds like you did.