Overview
Concrete slabs and footings support garages, sheds, additions and hot tubs. Engineering and permits are often required for structural work.
The base, thickness and reinforcement must match the load.
The usual process
- Site prep comes first. Excavation, compacted base and forms are a big part of a durable slab.
- Curing takes patience. Fresh concrete usually needs days before light use and longer before heavy loads.
- Describe the area and use. Size, shape and what will sit on it, such as cars or a hot tub, shape the design.
- Confirm requirements. Permits and engineering may apply.
- Excavate and form. Footings go below frost depth where required.
- Pour and cure. Strength develops over weeks.
Before you decide
- Frost depth varies. Local code sets minimum depth.
- Soil matters. Expansive soils need special design.
- Hot tubs need strong pads. Ask about load ratings.
- Freeze-thaw cycles are hard on concrete. Proper air entrainment, sealing and drainage help in cold climates.
- Drainage needs a plan. Slabs should slope away from the house so water doesn't pool.
- Reinforcement varies. Ask whether rebar, wire mesh or fiber is included and why.
What to have ready
- Rough measurements or quantities, if they matter for the job.
- Your timeline, and whether anything is urgent.
- The best way and time to reach you.
- A short description of the job and where it is on the property.
- Your address or nearest cross streets so the request reaches someone local.
Red flags to watch for
- No local address or references you can check.
- Suggesting you skip a required permit to save money.
- Unwilling to share proof of insurance or a license where one is required.
- Door-to-door offers right after a storm with no local track record.
- Pressure to sign or pay the same day.
How to vet a provider
- Is reinforcement included, and what type?
- What does your warranty cover for cracking or scaling?
- Will you pull any required permits?
- What base material and thickness do you plan to use?
- Is removal of the old concrete included?
- How will you handle control joints and slope for drainage?
Frequently asked
- How thick should a shed pad be?
- It depends on load. A contractor can recommend thickness.
- Will my concrete crack?
- Most concrete develops some hairline cracks. Control joints, good base prep and proper curing help keep cracks where they're intended.
- When can I drive on a new driveway?
- Providers often suggest waiting about a week for cars, but follow the specific guidance from whoever pours it.
Related topics
- Stamped & Decorative Concrete: Stamped patterns, colors and maintenance.
- Concrete Repair & Replacement: Cracks, spalling and sunken slabs: repair options.
- Concrete Driveways: New driveways and replacements: base, thickness and finishing options.
Tell us a little about what you need, and we'll get back to you about slabs & footings.