How thick should a concrete slab be for a garage?

We recommend a minimum of 4 inches for standard residential garages, but 5 to 6 inches is better if you have heavy vehicles or equipment. The concrete should be reinforced with wire mesh or rebar to prevent cracking. The base underneath should be 4 to 6 inches of compacted gravel.

Do I need a permit for a shed slab or garage foundation?

Permit requirements depend on the size and type of structure you are building. Most areas require permits for garages and larger structures. Smaller sheds might not need permits, but rules vary by location. We recommend checking with your local building department before starting your project.

What is the difference between a monolithic slab and a stem wall foundation?

A monolithic slab is poured all at once, with the edges thickened to support the walls. It sits directly on the prepared ground with no gap underneath. A stem wall foundation has a separate perimeter wall that sits on a footing, with the slab poured inside. Stem walls elevate the building slightly and work better in areas with drainage challenges or on sloped sites.

Concrete Slab & Foundation Work

Expert foundation and slab installation for residential and commercial structures.

Professional concrete slab finishing in Tuscaloosa, AL

The foundation is the most critical part of any structure. A properly installed concrete slab or foundation ensures your building stands strong for decades. Whether you are building a new home, adding a garage, or constructing a shed, we provide the expertise and precision needed to get your foundation right from the start.

Foundation and Slab Services We Provide

We handle all types of concrete foundation and slab work. Each project requires specific knowledge and techniques to ensure success. Our experience with local soil conditions and building requirements means your foundation will perform as intended.

Slab-on-Grade Foundations

Slab-on-grade foundations are the most common type in our area. We pour a single concrete slab that serves as both the foundation and the floor. This method works well in warmer climates where deep frost lines are not a concern. Slab foundations cost less than other types and can be installed relatively quickly. They work great for homes, garages, workshops, and other structures.

Garage and Shop Slabs

Garage slabs need to handle vehicle weight and potential impacts from dropped tools or equipment. We pour these slabs thicker than standard residential slabs and use proper reinforcement. The surface is finished smooth and level to make sweeping easy and prevent water from pooling. Proper drainage is built into the design so any spills or water flows toward the door.

Shed and Storage Building Slabs

Even small structures need solid foundations. A concrete slab keeps your shed or storage building level, prevents moisture problems, and provides a clean, stable floor. We can pour slabs for buildings of any size, from small tool sheds to large storage barns. The investment in a proper slab protects your building and everything you store inside.

Equipment Pads and Support Slabs

HVAC units, generators, and other mechanical equipment need stable, level support. We install equipment pads designed to handle the specific loads involved. These pads prevent settling, provide proper drainage, and make service access easier. Proper equipment support extends the life of your mechanical systems and prevents vibration issues.

Why Foundation Quality Cannot Be Compromised

Foundation problems are expensive and difficult to fix after construction is complete. Settling, cracks, or moisture issues can damage the entire structure above. That is why getting your foundation right from the beginning matters so much. Here are the key factors we focus on:

Thorough soil evaluation and proper site preparation
Adequate excavation depth and proper base compaction
Correct concrete thickness and strength specifications
Appropriate reinforcement placement and tie-in
Proper drainage design to direct water away
Control joints placed at correct intervals
Quality concrete mix and proper curing methods

We follow best practices and local building codes for all foundation work. Our crew has years of experience with the soil conditions and climate challenges specific to the Tuscaloosa area. This local knowledge helps us anticipate and prevent potential problems before they occur.

Our Foundation Installation Process

Foundation work requires careful attention at every step. We start by reviewing your plans and conducting a site evaluation. Understanding soil conditions, drainage patterns, and potential challenges allows us to plan the job correctly. We will discuss any site-specific concerns and make recommendations to ensure the best outcome.

Site preparation includes clearing, excavation, and grading. We dig to the depth specified in your plans and ensure the bottom of the excavation is level and properly compacted. In areas with poor soil, we may recommend additional base material or specialized techniques. A compacted gravel base provides stability and drainage underneath the slab.

We install moisture barriers where needed to prevent groundwater from wicking up through the concrete. Reinforcement steel is placed according to engineering specifications. Forms are set precisely to the required dimensions and elevations. Before pouring, we verify that all utilities and anchor bolts are in the correct locations.

Concrete placement happens efficiently to maintain proper consistency throughout the slab. We use screeds and power trowels to achieve the correct level and finish. Control joints are cut or formed at appropriate intervals. Finally, we apply curing methods to ensure the concrete develops full strength and durability. The result is a foundation that will support your structure reliably for its entire lifespan.

Working with Builders and Individual Homeowners

We work with general contractors, builders, and individual property owners. For contractors, we provide reliable scheduling, quality workmanship, and clear communication throughout the project. We understand construction timelines and work efficiently to keep your project on track.

Homeowners tackling DIY building projects get the same professional service. We can work from your plans or help you understand what size and type of foundation your project requires. Many people handle the building part themselves but hire us for the foundation work because it requires specialized equipment and expertise. This approach saves money while ensuring the critical foundation is done right.

Whether you need a simple shed slab or a complete house foundation, we treat every job with the same level of professionalism and attention to detail. Our goal is to provide a solid foundation that exceeds your expectations and stands the test of time. For any concrete work in Tuscaloosa, we bring the experience and dedication your project deserves.

Related Concrete Services

Foundation work often goes hand-in-hand with other concrete services. Once your foundation is in place, you might need a concrete driveway to provide access. We can also install sidewalks and walkways to connect your buildings. Our comprehensive concrete services mean you can work with one trusted contractor for all your concrete needs.