Concrete Slab & Foundation Work
Your entire structure rests on its foundation, so getting it right from the start is not optional.
Why Foundation Work Demands Professional Expertise
A foundation is the most critical part of any building project. Problems with your foundation affect everything above it including walls, floors, doors, and windows. Once a structure is built, fixing foundation issues costs thousands of dollars and requires major work. Getting it right the first time means hiring experienced contractors who understand soil mechanics, proper reinforcement, and local building codes.
Texas soil presents unique challenges for foundation work. Many areas including Cibolo have expansive clay soils that shrink and swell with moisture changes. This movement puts stress on foundations and can cause cracking or settling if not properly addressed. We account for these conditions by using adequate depth, proper reinforcement, and correct concrete mix designs. Our installations meet or exceed local building code requirements for residential and commercial applications.
Foundation work includes several types of installations. Slab-on-grade foundations sit directly on the ground with the concrete floor and foundation combined into one piece. Pier and beam foundations use concrete piers to support the structure above the ground. We also handle foundation repairs including leveling, mudjacking, and partial replacements. Whether you need a simple shed slab or a full house foundation, we bring the equipment and expertise to handle it correctly.
Foundation Types We Install
Slab-On-Grade Foundations
Slab-on-grade is the most common foundation type for residential construction in Texas. This design combines the floor and foundation into one continuous concrete pour. We excavate the site, prepare the base, and install forms around the perimeter. The foundation edges are thickened and reinforced to support load-bearing walls. Plumbing and electrical conduits get positioned before the pour since they will be embedded in the concrete. This foundation type works well on stable soil and costs less than raised foundations.
Pier and Beam Foundations
Pier and beam foundations elevate your structure above the ground using concrete piers and wooden beams. This design provides better access to plumbing and allows air circulation under the house. We drill or excavate holes for the piers and install them according to engineering specifications. The spacing and depth depend on soil conditions and the weight of your structure. Pier and beam foundations work better than slabs in areas with poor drainage or expansive soils. They also make future repairs or modifications easier since you can access under the house.
Garage Slabs and Outbuildings
Not every slab requires the same engineering as a house foundation. Detached garages, workshops, and storage buildings typically use simpler slab designs with adequate thickness and reinforcement. We still follow proper procedures for site preparation, base compaction, and concrete placement. These slabs need proper drainage and control joints just like larger foundations. If you plan to add epoxy coatings or special finishes later, we can prepare the surface accordingly during installation.
Key Elements of Proper Foundation Work
- •Soil testing and analysis to determine bearing capacity and identify potential issues before construction starts
- •Proper excavation depth based on soil type, frost line, and local building code requirements
- •Compacted base material that provides stable support and prevents settling over time
- •Steel reinforcement including rebar and wire mesh positioned correctly for maximum strength
- •Proper concrete mix design with adequate strength rating for your specific application
Our Foundation Installation Process
Professional foundation work follows a detailed sequence that cannot be rushed or skipped. Each step builds on the previous one to create a solid, long-lasting foundation for your structure.
Site Assessment and Planning
We start by evaluating your property and understanding the scope of your project. This includes checking soil conditions, identifying underground utilities, and noting drainage patterns. We review building plans to confirm dimensions and specifications. For larger projects, soil testing helps us determine the bearing capacity and identify any special requirements. We also coordinate with local building officials to ensure our plans meet all code requirements and obtain necessary permits.
Excavation and Base Preparation
The excavation process removes topsoil and digs to the required depth for your foundation type. We use laser levels and surveying equipment to maintain proper grades and elevations. The excavated area gets inspected and any soft spots or unsuitable soil gets removed and replaced with proper fill. We bring in crushed stone or gravel for the base layer and compact it thoroughly. This base prevents settling and provides drainage away from the foundation. Any plumbing or electrical conduits that run under the slab get installed at this stage.
Forms, Reinforcement, and Pour
Forms get installed around the perimeter to contain the concrete and create the foundation shape. We use heavy-duty forms braced securely to handle the weight and pressure of the concrete pour. Rebar gets placed according to engineering specifications with proper spacing and coverage. The reinforcement sits on chairs or supports so it stays in the correct position during the pour. On installation day, we coordinate delivery of the correct concrete mix and have our full crew ready. The concrete gets placed quickly and consolidated to remove air pockets. We work the surface to proper grades and finish levels. The foundation then cures for several days before construction can continue. Similar attention to detail goes into all our concrete work including driveways and other flatwork.
Common Questions About Foundation Work
Start Your Project on Solid Ground
Get a free consultation and quote for your foundation or slab project. We handle everything from simple shed slabs to complete house foundations.
(726) 465-9261