UBC Urbana Concrete logoUBC Urbana Concrete

Concrete Slab & Foundation Work

Build on a solid foundation that protects your investment and stands strong for the life of your structure.

Professional concrete slab and foundation work with rebar reinforcement in Urbana, IL

Foundation Work You Can Build On

Your foundation is literally what holds up everything else. Whether you are building a new garage, adding a room, or putting up a shed, you need a concrete slab that sits level and stays that way. We have poured hundreds of slabs throughout Champaign County, and we know exactly how to prepare the ground and install concrete that will not settle, crack, or cause problems down the road.

The biggest mistake people make with foundation work is rushing the preparation phase. They want to get to the concrete pour quickly and skip the critical steps that ensure long-term stability. We take a different approach. Our team spends the time needed to properly excavate, compact the soil, and install the base materials that keep your slab from moving over time.

Illinois soil conditions vary significantly from one location to another. Clay soils expand when wet and shrink when dry. Sandy soils drain well but need proper compaction. We test your specific site conditions and adjust our methods accordingly. This attention to detail means you get a foundation that works with your soil type rather than fighting against it.

What Makes a Quality Concrete Slab

A good slab starts below ground level. We excavate to the proper depth for your project, then install a gravel base that provides stability and drainage. This base gets compacted in layers to eliminate any soft spots that could cause settling later. We also install vapor barriers when needed to prevent moisture from coming up through the concrete.

Critical Components of Every Slab

  • Proper excavation depth based on your building requirements and local codes
  • Compacted gravel base that provides stable support and allows water drainage
  • Rebar reinforcement placed at the correct height and spacing for structural strength
  • The right concrete thickness for your intended load and use

We pour at the proper thickness for your project. A residential patio needs less thickness than a garage floor that will support vehicles. We follow local building codes and engineering specifications to ensure your slab meets all requirements. Every pour gets proper finishing and curing to reach full strength before you load it.

Common Slab Applications

We pour slabs for all types of structures around Champaign, Urbana, and Savoy. Garage slabs are one of our most common projects. These need to handle vehicle weight and resist oil stains and chemical exposure. We install them with the right slope for drainage and finish them smooth enough for easy cleaning.

Where We Install Slabs

Shed and outbuilding foundations need to be level and properly sized for your structure. We make sure your slab extends slightly beyond your building footprint so walls sit fully on concrete rather than hanging over the edge. This prevents water infiltration and keeps your structure stable.

Home additions require slabs that tie into your existing foundation properly. We coordinate with your builder to ensure the new slab sits at the right height and connects correctly to existing structures. Pole barn floors need slabs that can handle heavy equipment and last for decades with minimal maintenance.

Some homeowners in our area need equipment pads for HVAC units, generators, or hot tubs. These smaller slabs still require the same careful preparation as larger projects. We make sure they sit level, drain properly, and provide the stable base your equipment needs to function correctly.

Common Questions About Slabs and Foundations

How thick does my concrete slab need to be?
This depends entirely on what you plan to build on the slab. A basic shed might only need 4 inches of concrete. A garage that will hold vehicles typically requires at least 4 to 6 inches with proper reinforcement. Heavy equipment or commercial uses might need even thicker slabs. We will assess your specific project and recommend the right thickness based on load requirements and local building codes.
Do I need a building permit for a concrete slab?
In most cases, yes. Champaign County and local municipalities require permits for most concrete slab installations, especially if they are part of a building project. The permit process ensures your slab meets minimum safety and construction standards. We can guide you through the permit requirements for your specific project and location. Some simple slabs for small sheds might not need permits, but it is always best to check with your local building department first.
How long before I can use my new concrete slab?
You can typically walk on your new slab within 24 to 48 hours after we pour it. However, concrete continues to gain strength for weeks. We recommend waiting at least seven days before driving vehicles on it or placing heavy loads. For building projects, your contractor may want to wait even longer before starting construction. We will give you specific guidance based on weather conditions and your intended use. Proper curing time ensures your slab reaches full strength and lasts as long as possible.