[ox_ford_guy]

fsstnotch...Hope all is well there in Iraq and please hang in there for all of us...Also, have a happy holidays for all of you in uniform....

New garage wise, be very sure the existing garage footings are proper for your climate. (code probably 42" deep) for PA.

Slope the floor (as per local code) so any water or fuel leaks run out.
Also, if attached to the house, a step down of 4"-6" or more from the house is also usually a code requirement.
Also, If PA. code allows, drain(s) in the floor attached to a dry-well/sewer for "gray water" is also a very nice feature.

In Connecticut, I built a new detached 3 car garage (actually holds 4 cars) five years ago. The footprint was 24'x36' (864 sq ft) and it is a 2 story building.

I had 42" deep footings poured and I went with 6" of crushed stone and a 6" slab (3500 PSI) througout. I used heavy 4" wire mesh in the slab so I can do a lift if I want to in the future.

Also,while you are at it, put in any 4" sewer drains you might want in the future even if you cap it off for now. I have had no cracking or other problems after 5 years with the floor or foundation footings.

Although my reference prices are from 5 years ago, I feel, $8,000 sounds a bit much for just a 4" slab and no footings. I would check around.....Gordon