Concrete Slabs & Flatwork

What Counts as Flatwork

Flatwork means any horizontal concrete surface that needs to be level and strong. This includes garage floors, shed pads, equipment pads for AC units or generators, basketball courts, dog runs, and large utility areas. Basically, if you need a solid flat surface that handles weight and weather, you need quality flatwork.

Throughout Haltom, we pour concrete slabs for homeowners who need functional spaces that last. Maybe you are building a new shed and need a proper foundation. Maybe your old garage floor has cracks and needs replacement. Or you want a clean surface for working on projects. Whatever your specific need, proper slab installation provides the solid foundation everything else builds on.

Slab Thickness and Reinforcement

Not all slabs are the same. The right thickness depends on what you plan to put on the concrete. A simple shed pad might only need 4 inches. A garage floor that holds vehicles should be 5 to 6 inches thick. Heavy equipment or RV parking might require even thicker concrete with extra reinforcement.

We always include proper reinforcement. This means rebar or wire mesh that keeps concrete from cracking under load. For larger slabs, we install control joints at specific intervals so any cracking happens in predetermined spots we can seal easily. Our approach to residential concrete flatwork in Haltom focuses on building it right the first time so you do not deal with expensive repairs later.

Base Preparation Steps

The ground under your slab matters as much as the concrete itself. Here is how we prepare the base for long-lasting flatwork:

• Excavate to proper depth based on combined concrete and base thickness
• Remove all organic material that would decompose and create voids
• Grade for drainage to prevent water pooling under or around the slab
• Install compacted gravel base typically 4 to 6 inches thick
• Compact in layers using a plate compactor or roller for stability
• Add vapor barrier when moisture control is important like garage floors

Skipping base prep is the number one cause of slab failure. Concrete poured on poorly prepared ground will settle, crack, or heave no matter how thick or strong the concrete is. We never cut corners on preparation work because we know what happens when you do.

Applications for Concrete Slabs

Concrete slabs solve many property challenges. Garage floors need to hold vehicles without cracking. Shed pads keep your storage buildings level and dry. Equipment pads provide stable platforms for AC units, generators, or pool equipment. RV pads give you a clean place to park without damaging your yard.

Some homeowners pour slabs for workshop space, dog runs, or storage areas. Others extend their existing driveway with additional parking pads. We also pour approach slabs for building entrances and loading areas. Each application has specific requirements we account for during planning and installation.

Finishing Options

Most flatwork gets a broom finish that provides traction without being rough. This works well for garage floors, equipment pads, and utility areas. For smoother surfaces, we can trowel finish to a harder, denser texture. Exposed aggregate creates a decorative look with natural stone showing through.

If you want your slab to match other concrete work on your property, we can apply color or decorative treatments. The finish you choose depends on how you plan to use the space and your aesthetic preferences. We explain the pros and cons of each option so you can make an informed decision.

Frequently Asked Questions