Concrete Slabs & Flatwork
Solid foundations for sheds, garages, equipment pads, and any flat concrete surface you need.
Understanding Concrete Flatwork
Flatwork is exactly what it sounds like: any flat horizontal concrete surface. This includes shed pads, garage floors, equipment pads for AC units or generators, workshop floors, and pool surrounds. While these might seem simpler than decorative concrete, they still require proper installation to perform correctly.
Each flatwork application has specific requirements. A shed pad needs adequate thickness to support the structure and contents. A garage floor needs proper slope for drainage and must handle vehicle weight. An equipment pad for your HVAC system needs to stay perfectly level so the unit runs efficiently. We design and install each slab based on its intended use.
Building Slabs That Last
A quality concrete slab starts well before any concrete arrives. Site preparation determines whether your slab stays level and crack-free or settles and breaks apart. We never cut corners on the underground work because that's what supports everything above.
Every slab we pour includes these essential elements:
- •Soil evaluation: Testing soil conditions to identify problem areas before we start
- •Proper excavation: Removing topsoil and organic material that compresses over time
- •Compacted base: 4-6 inches of crushed stone, compacted to 95% density
- •Vapor barrier: Plastic sheeting that prevents ground moisture from wicking into concrete
- •Steel reinforcement: Wire mesh or rebar appropriate for the load requirements
- •Proper thickness: Minimum 4 inches for light use, 5-6 inches for vehicles or heavy equipment
Matching Slabs to Your Needs
Different uses require different specifications. A garage floor needs proper slope toward the door for water drainage. A generator pad needs conduit sleeves cast into the concrete for electrical and gas lines. A pool deck requires special finishing for slip resistance and proper drainage away from the pool.
We also consider Newton's climate in every pour. Our concrete mix includes air entrainment that protects against freeze-thaw damage. We time pours to avoid temperature extremes that affect curing. And we ensure proper drainage so water doesn't pool against your slab and create pressure during freeze cycles. These details prevent the premature failures you see with rushed or inexperienced work.
Popular Flatwork Projects
Shed pads give you a stable, level foundation that keeps your storage shed from settling or rotting. The concrete protects the building from ground moisture and provides a solid floor inside. We can make them any size to match your shed dimensions.
Equipment pads support AC condensers, pool pumps, generators, and other mechanical equipment. These need to stay perfectly level for proper equipment operation and drainage. We can include anchor points for mounting equipment and pathways for service access.
Garage and workshop floors need to handle vehicle weight, resist oil and chemical stains, and provide a smooth working surface. We can add hardeners for extra durability or leave the surface open for epoxy coating later. Similar attention to quality applies to our patio installations and other concrete surfaces.
Need a Concrete Slab?
Tell us what you're building, and we'll design the right foundation for your needs.
Call (617) 862-3423