Concrete Slab & Foundation Work
Build your structure on solid ground with professional concrete slab and foundation services designed for our local soil and climate.
Why Your Foundation Matters
Your foundation is the most important part of any building project. Everything else sits on top of it, so it needs to be done right the first time. A poorly poured foundation leads to cracked walls, sticking doors, uneven floors, and expensive repairs down the road. We specialize in concrete slabs and foundations that stay level and solid for the life of your structure.
Longview sits in an area with clay soil and high moisture from our rainy climate. This combination can cause settling and shifting if the foundation is not properly prepared. We have worked with local soil conditions for years and know exactly how to prepare the site, compact the base, and pour the concrete to prevent future problems.
What Makes a Good Foundation
- •Proper site preparation: Soil must be tested, graded, and compacted before any concrete is poured
- •Adequate thickness: Foundation slabs must be thick enough to support the load without cracking
- •Steel reinforcement: Rebar or wire mesh adds tensile strength to resist cracking from settling
- •Proper drainage: Water must be directed away from the foundation to prevent erosion and settling
- •Moisture barriers: Vapor barriers prevent ground moisture from wicking into the concrete
We handle both residential and commercial foundation work. Whether you are building a new home, adding a garage, or constructing a shop building, we provide foundation services that meet all local building codes and engineering requirements.
Types of Concrete Foundations We Install
Different structures need different foundation types. We work with engineers and builders to install the right foundation for your project requirements, soil conditions, and budget.
Slab on Grade Foundations
This is the most common foundation type in our area. A slab on grade is a single layer of concrete poured directly on prepared soil. It works well for single-story homes, garages, shops, and commercial buildings. The slab is typically 4 to 6 inches thick with thickened edges where walls will sit. We install a gravel base for drainage, add a vapor barrier to block ground moisture, and use steel reinforcement for strength. This type of foundation is cost effective and works great in our climate when done properly.
Stem Wall Foundations
A stem wall foundation has a concrete perimeter wall that sits on footings below the frost line. The interior slab is poured later, creating a raised foundation that works well on sloped lots or in areas with poor drainage. This design keeps the structure elevated above ground level, protecting against moisture and providing better insulation. Stem walls are common for homes in areas with challenging site conditions.
Garage and Shop Slabs
Detached garages, shops, and outbuildings need foundations that can support heavy equipment and vehicle traffic. We pour slabs at the proper thickness with steel reinforcement to prevent cracking under load. The floor can be finished smooth for easy cleaning or with a broom texture for better traction. These slabs connect perfectly with concrete driveways to create a seamless surface from street to building.
For commercial projects, we work closely with engineers to meet specific load requirements and building codes. Our team has experience with commercial concrete work of all sizes, from small retail spaces to large industrial buildings.
Our Foundation Installation Process
Foundation work follows a careful sequence of steps. Skipping or rushing any step can compromise the entire project. We follow proven methods that ensure your foundation performs well for decades.
Site Preparation and Excavation
We start by clearing and grading the site to the proper elevation. The area is excavated to the required depth based on your foundation design. Soil is tested and compacted to provide a stable base. If we encounter soft spots or poor soil, we remove it and replace it with compacted gravel to create a solid foundation bed.
Forms, Reinforcement, and Utilities
Forms are built to the exact dimensions and elevations specified in your plans. We install steel reinforcement bars or wire mesh according to engineering specifications. Any plumbing, electrical conduits, or other utilities that need to run through or under the slab are installed before the pour. This coordination prevents costly mistakes and keeps your project on schedule.
Concrete Pour and Finishing
The concrete mix is designed for foundation work with the right strength and workability. We pour and spread the concrete, making sure it completely fills the forms and surrounds all reinforcement. The surface is leveled and finished to the specified smoothness. Proper finishing creates a flat, level surface for framing and construction above.
Curing is critical for foundation strength. We protect the concrete from drying too quickly and maintain proper moisture levels during the curing period. This allows the concrete to reach its full strength before construction continues. Most foundations are ready for framing after 7 to 14 days, depending on weather and concrete specifications.
Throughout the process, we coordinate with builders, inspectors, and other trades to keep your project moving forward. Our experience with local building requirements means your foundation passes inspections the first time.
Common Questions About Foundation Work
Start Your Project on Solid Ground
Get a free estimate for your concrete foundation project. We will review your plans and provide a detailed quote for quality foundation work.