Concrete Slab & Foundation Work

Why Your Foundation is Critical

Your foundation is the most important part of any structure. Everything else depends on it being level, strong, and properly installed. A quality concrete slab or foundation prevents settling, cracking, and structural problems that can cost thousands of dollars to repair later. Whether you're building a new home, adding a garage, constructing a shed, or planning a commercial building, the foundation determines how well your structure will perform over its lifetime.

Here in Salina, KS, we understand the soil conditions and climate factors that affect foundations. Our area's clay soils can expand and contract with moisture changes, and we experience freeze-thaw cycles that put stress on concrete. These local conditions require specific knowledge and techniques to ensure your foundation stays solid and level for decades.

We specialize in both residential and commercial concrete services, and we have the equipment and expertise to handle projects of any size. From small shed foundations to large commercial buildings, we approach every project with the same attention to detail and commitment to quality.

Foundation Types We Install

Different structures require different foundation approaches. We install several types of concrete foundations and slabs:

• Slab-on-Grade Foundations: A single-layer concrete foundation poured directly on prepared soil, ideal for homes without basements and most commercial buildings
• Monolithic Slabs: A foundation and floor poured in one piece, creating a strong, economical option for many structures
• Stem Wall Foundations: A foundation with a footing and short wall that elevates the structure above ground level
• Grade Beams: Reinforced concrete beams that distribute building loads to isolated footings or piles
• Equipment Pads: Heavy-duty slabs designed to support HVAC units, generators, or other equipment
• Shop and Garage Floors: Thick, reinforced slabs built to handle vehicle traffic and heavy equipment

We'll recommend the right foundation type based on your structure, soil conditions, budget, and local building codes. Every project gets a thorough site evaluation before we begin, so we can identify any challenges and plan accordingly.

Our Foundation Installation Process

A solid foundation starts with proper planning and preparation. Here's how we ensure your foundation is built right:

• 1.
  Site Survey and Soil Testing: We evaluate your site's drainage, soil bearing capacity, and any potential issues. Understanding your soil is critical for foundation success.
• 2.
  Excavation and Grading: We excavate to the correct depth, remove unsuitable soil if necessary, and grade the site to ensure proper drainage away from the foundation.
• 3.
  Base Preparation: We install and compact a base of gravel or crushed stone to create a stable, well-draining foundation bed. This step is crucial for preventing settling.
• 4.
  Vapor Barrier and Insulation: We install a vapor barrier to prevent moisture migration and add insulation if your project requires it for energy efficiency.
• 5.
  Reinforcement: We place steel rebar or wire mesh according to engineering specifications to give your foundation the strength it needs to resist cracking and settling.
• 6.
  Concrete Pour and Finishing: We pour high-strength concrete mixed to the right specifications for your foundation type, then level and finish it to precise tolerances.
• 7.
  Curing: We protect the concrete during the curing process to ensure it reaches full strength. Proper curing is essential for long-term durability.

We work with engineers and follow local building codes to ensure every foundation meets or exceeds requirements. Our experience with Kansas soil and weather conditions means we know how to build foundations that last.

Common Foundation and Slab Applications

We install concrete slabs and foundations for a wide range of residential and commercial projects:

• New home foundations and basement floors
• Garage and shop foundations
• Pole barn and agricultural building slabs
• Shed and storage building foundations
• Commercial building foundations
• Warehouse and industrial floors
• HVAC equipment pads and mechanical room floors
• Addition and sunroom foundations

No matter what you're building, we can provide the solid foundation you need. We have the equipment to handle large commercial pours and the attention to detail for smaller residential projects.

If you're planning new construction, talk to us early in the process. We can coordinate with your builder or architect to ensure the foundation is scheduled and installed at the right time. For existing structures that need foundation repair, our concrete repair and replacement services can evaluate and address foundation issues.

Frequently Asked Questions