Concrete Slab & Foundation Work

A concrete slab or foundation isn't something you can easily fix later. Once your building sits on it, any problems become expensive nightmares. That's why we take foundation work seriously and never cut corners.

In Apache Junction, we deal with challenging soil conditions including expansive clay that shifts with moisture changes. A properly engineered and installed foundation accounts for these local conditions. It needs to distribute weight evenly, resist ground movement, and provide a perfectly level surface for construction.

Whether you're building a new home, adding a garage, installing a storage shed, or constructing a commercial building, you need experienced concrete contractors who understand local building codes and soil conditions. We've poured hundreds of slabs and foundations throughout the area.

Different structures require different foundation approaches. Here's what we specialize in:

• Monolithic slab foundations: The most common type for Arizona homes. The foundation and floor are poured as one piece, creating a solid base. This works well in our climate since we don't need deep frost protection.
• Stem wall foundations: These have a perimeter footing below ground with concrete walls rising to support the structure. The slab is poured inside. This provides better drainage and elevation control.
• Grade beam foundations: Used for buildings on uneven terrain or with post supports. Reinforced concrete beams connect the footings and support the structure.
• Garage and shop slabs: Thicker slabs designed to handle vehicle weight and heavy equipment. We typically pour 5-6 inches thick with proper reinforcement.
• Shed and storage building slabs: Smaller slabs for outbuildings, properly sized and reinforced for the structure going on top.
• Commercial building foundations: Engineered for larger structures with specific load requirements. We work directly with engineers and follow their specifications exactly.

Each project starts with soil testing and engineering to determine the right foundation type and specifications. We don't guess. We follow engineered plans and local building codes to ensure your foundation passes inspection the first time.

Foundation work requires precision and attention to detail at every step. Here's what we do:

Site Evaluation and Planning

Before breaking ground, we evaluate your site conditions. Is the ground level or sloped? What's the soil composition? Where will water drain? We take measurements, check for underground utilities, and verify property lines. If you're building a home or large structure, you'll need engineered plans. We can work with your engineer or help you find one.

Excavation and Soil Preparation

We excavate to the proper depth based on your foundation design. This might mean removing several inches for a simple slab or digging footings 18-24 inches deep for a stem wall foundation. The soil must be properly compacted to prevent settling. In areas with poor soil, we may need to remove and replace it or add extra reinforcement.

Base Material and Drainage

We install a layer of compacted gravel that provides drainage and a stable base. Proper drainage is critical. Water under your slab can cause settling, cracking, and structural problems. We ensure water flows away from the foundation. If needed, we install drain lines or moisture barriers.

Forming and Reinforcement

We set up forms to the exact dimensions and elevation specified in your plans. Forms must be level, square, and properly braced. Then we install reinforcement, typically rebar in a grid pattern for residential slabs. The rebar placement and spacing follows engineering specifications. We also embed anchor bolts and any necessary plumbing or electrical rough-ins at this stage.

Concrete Pour and Finishing

On pour day, we place the concrete carefully to avoid displacing the reinforcement. We work quickly to finish the entire slab while the concrete is workable. After leveling, we use power trowels to create a smooth, dense surface. For garage slabs, we can add a broom finish for traction. The finishing must be done at exactly the right time for best results.

Curing and Protection

We apply a curing compound and protect the fresh concrete from rapid drying. In Arizona's heat, this step is especially important. We may cover the slab or mist it with water. Proper curing prevents surface cracking and ensures the concrete reaches its full strength. We don't rush this process.

Several factors determine whether your foundation will perform well for decades or cause problems in just a few years:

• Proper soil compaction: Loose or unstable soil will settle, causing the slab to crack and tilt
• Adequate thickness: Residential slabs typically need 4-6 inches depending on the load requirements
• Correct reinforcement: Rebar must be properly sized, spaced, and positioned within the concrete
• Good drainage: Water must flow away from the foundation, not pool underneath or against it
• Level and square construction: Even small errors in level cause big problems when you start building walls
• Quality concrete mix: The concrete must have the right strength for your application
• Proper curing time: Rushing the process leads to weak concrete that cracks easily

We've seen too many foundations that failed because contractors skipped steps or didn't understand local conditions. When we pour a foundation, it's engineered and built to last. We follow building codes and best practices every time. If you need commercial concrete services, we bring the same attention to detail to larger projects.

We pour slabs and foundations for all types of residential and commercial projects:

• New home construction foundations
• Detached garages and carports
• Workshop and hobby building slabs
• Storage sheds and outbuildings
• Pool equipment pads and decking
• Commercial building foundations
• Warehouse and industrial floors
• Room additions and expansions
• Equipment pads for HVAC or generators

Each application has specific requirements. A storage shed needs a different foundation than a garage or home. We size and engineer each project appropriately. If you need other concrete work like driveways done at the same time, we can coordinate everything for maximum efficiency.