Concrete Slabs & Flatwork

What Is Concrete Flatwork

Flatwork is the term professionals use for any horizontal concrete surface. This includes floors, slabs, pads, and other flat installations. While it might sound simple, quality flatwork requires careful attention to site preparation, proper reinforcement, correct concrete mixes, and skilled finishing techniques.

Every flatwork project has unique requirements based on its intended use. A storage shed pad has different specifications than a commercial warehouse floor. We assess your specific needs and engineer the right solution for long-term performance.

Types of Slabs and Flatwork We Install

Our flatwork services cover a wide range of residential and commercial applications:

• •Garage floors: Durable floors that handle vehicle weight, resist oil stains, and provide a clean workspace
• •Shed and equipment pads: Level, stable bases for storage sheds, HVAC units, generators, and equipment
• •Barn and pole building floors: Heavy-duty slabs designed for agricultural and utility buildings
• •Commercial floors: Industrial-strength flatwork for warehouses, shops, and commercial spaces
• •Basement floors: Smooth, level floors for finished or unfinished basements
• •Concrete aprons: Transition areas between surfaces like driveways and garages

Why Proper Slab Installation Matters

Site Preparation

Everything starts with the ground beneath your slab. We remove unstable soil, compact the subgrade, and install the proper base materials. Poor site prep leads to settling, cracking, and uneven surfaces. This step cannot be rushed or skipped.

Vapor Barriers and Drainage

Moisture from below can damage concrete and anything stored on it. We install vapor barriers under slabs where needed and ensure proper drainage around the perimeter. These details prevent costly moisture problems down the road.

Reinforcement

Most slabs need reinforcement to handle loads and prevent cracking. We use rebar, wire mesh, or fiber reinforcement depending on the application. Heavy-use slabs like garage floors and commercial spaces get additional reinforcement for maximum strength.

Thickness and Mix Design

Slab thickness and concrete strength depend on what you are building. A light-duty shed pad might only need 4 inches of standard concrete, while a commercial warehouse floor might require 6-8 inches of high-strength mix. We specify the right combination for your project, whether it is similar to residential patio work or heavy-duty foundation-grade concrete.

Our Installation Process

We start every project with a site evaluation to understand soil conditions, drainage patterns, and your specific requirements. Then we prepare the site, install base materials, set forms to the correct dimensions, and place reinforcement.

The concrete pour is coordinated to ensure proper placement and finishing before the concrete begins to set. We use laser levels and screeds to create perfectly flat, level surfaces. Finishing techniques depend on the application - some slabs get a smooth trowel finish, while others need a rougher texture for traction.

Control joints are cut or formed at regular intervals to manage cracking. Finally, we protect the concrete during curing to achieve maximum strength and durability. The result is a slab that performs reliably for decades.