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How To Build High Quality Slabs on Grade

A primer on what it takes to build concrete slabs— from proper subgrade preparation to adequate curing

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Dos and Don'ts When Building Concrete Slabs

Before you begin: Avoid these 7 common mistakes

Make sure the subgrade is compact

Use a low water-cement ratio: How to calculate

Subgrades and subbases for concrete slabs: Tips for ensuring good support

How to Prevent Cracks

Important guidelines for preventing cracks in concrete slabs

Be active in deciding where control joints will be placed

Proper Curing of Concrete Slabs

Properly curing concrete slabs: Why and how

Allow enough time to water cure

Related Information:

Concrete calculator for slab pours: Figure out how many cubic yards you'll need

The three types of concrete foundations

Vapor barriers for concrete slabs

Post-tensioned concrete slabs

Concrete slabjacking

Other Resources:

Find a Homes, Slabs or Foundations Contractor

Concrete Contractors: Find Forms for Concrete Slabs

Concrete Slab Construction

Concrete slab construction presents many variables that must be considered before a concrete pour begins. Because of concrete's setting time, a slab pour requires efficient planning so that all of the elements required to place a good slab are done in time and done correctly. Some of the issues to consider include proper subgrade preparation for concrete slabs, calculating proper water-to-cement ratio in the concrete mix, placing control joints, allowing proper curing time, and much more. Here are some useful links to help you evaluate all of the elements associated with pouring high quality concrete slabs.

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