Question is monolithic slab - Pour all at once?

[sethnaga]

The contractor quoted to pour all at once = the 15" X 24" footing, 3 feet retaining wall on two sides and the 20 X 32 feet slab. Is this feasible? Quotes received from other contractors split this into three days – 1st Day - pour the footings, wait for some time, and than pour the retaining wall, back fill, compact and finally pour the slab on a separate day.

Is this acceptable practice - Pouring all (footing, retaining wall and slab) in one pump?. I am concerned that it might develop cracks since this would be a one huge piece of structure. Also I thought that the better idea is to pour the footing first and let it get cured and than pour the rest since they all sit on top of footing. Now the guy who quoted monolithic slab is the lowest quote, also have excellent reputation, so I would like to know if this is a correct way.

Please enlighten me on this. Thanks

[Willie T]

Same answer here, Seth. :p

[CR2]

The three steps process is common practice, footer and walls at the same time might be OK, but definetely the slab should be isolated from walls, even if dowels are installed; if properly designed, is feasible yes, but not for the cheapest price, remember, you get what you pay for, I know a lot of good masons that very often bite more than what they can chew.
Good Luck!