Technical questions

[Palomo]

Looking to install a mat in an older building with a basement. I was told that a basement was a negative since the front loaders weigh so much. Is this true. Do I need to look into installing concrete pillars for supporting each machine from the basement floor to the finished floor?

[Jefflange]

You will need the cement pillars for sure. Make sure you hire a contractor who has done this before. Ask your distributor for specific advice. I do have 2 laundromats that are like this.

[Laundry_Mike]

You heard right. A building with a basement is a definite negative. A steel and/or concrete structure must be made in order to install front load machines. I suppose you could install those little (Maytag Neptune style) frontloads without a structure underneath, but not any others that need bolted down. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

[Howard]

I think having a basement is a great positive. Sure you have some cheap concrete pilars under the bases, but look at all the storage space you have. Plus you can have all your utilities down there with easy access for repairs. I have one, and wouldn't have it any other way.

[Jefflange]

I have no concerns with having a basement as long as the pillars are constructed properly. You need to use sono tubes with rebar and they must be tied into the basement floor. You want a continuous poor of the concrete. It is nice to have your boiler in the basement if you are tight on space.