What To Expect: Foundations and Concrete Slabs

Starting a new construction home is an exciting journey, and it begins with one of the most important steps—foundations and concrete slabs. These key components not only support your home’s structure but also shape features like patios and driveways. When you build with Kimball Construction, understanding this phase helps you make informed decisions and stay confident throughout the process.

What are Foundations and Concrete Slabs?

Foundations and concrete slabs form the structural base of your home. The foundation anchors your house to the ground, while concrete slabs create a level surface that can serve multiple purposes—such as floors inside your home, walkways, patios, and driveways.

Types of Foundations and Slabs

Your new home may include:

• Slab-on-grade foundations that double as the ground floor
• T-shaped or frost-protected foundations for colder climates
• Concrete slabs used outdoors for driveways, patios, and front porches

Concrete slabs, whether used inside or outside, are typically made from poured concrete. While reinforcement such as rebar or wire mesh is often added for extra strength, it’s not always required and depends on the slab’s use, local codes, and soil conditions.

When are Foundations and Concrete Slabs installed?

Foundations and concrete slabs are among the first elements installed during new home construction. After the lot is cleared and leveled, foundation work begins. Exterior slabs like driveways and patios are usually poured later in the process, once most of the home’s structure is in place.

During foundation inspections, local building inspectors will verify not only the structure’s compliance with code but also its exact location on the lot. They check to ensure the foundation doesn’t encroach on any property setbacks and that it’s properly placed according to the approved plans. This step is crucial for avoiding costly relocation or compliance issues later.

By completing this phase early and accurately, Kimball Construction helps keep your project moving smoothly.

How are Foundations and Concrete Slabs installed?

Installing foundations and concrete slabs involves a careful, multi-step process that ensures long-term performance.

Step 1: Building Forms and Excavation

Forms are then constructed to define the shape of the foundation or slab. If needed, the team excavates for footings and other deep support features.

Step 2: Adding Base Layers and Optional Reinforcements

Reinforcement like rebar or wire mesh may be added depending on engineering needs, soil conditions, and whether the slab will carry heavy loads, such as in garages or driveways.

Step 3: Pouring and Finishing Concrete

Concrete is poured into the forms and leveled using tools like screeds and floats. It is then finished for smoothness or texture, especially in visible outdoor areas like patios and driveways.

Who installs Foundations and Concrete Slabs?

Kimball Construction oversees the entire process, managing inspections and ensuring everything is done to the highest standard. We hire qualified concrete contractors to perform the actual installation of your home’s foundation, interior concrete floors, and outdoor slabs such as driveways and patios. These professionals bring specialized experience to each project, ensuring proper techniques and quality results.

Our role includes coordinating their work, verifying alignment with engineering plans, and maintaining communication throughout the process. With Kimball Construction, you get expert supervision and skilled craftsmanship from start to finish.

How long do Foundations and Concrete Slabs Take to Install?

Timelines can vary based on weather, inspections, and scope. Here’s what to expect:

• Ordering and utility rough-ins: 1–2 weeks for organizing materials and coordinating plumbing or electrical groundwork
• Forming and pouring: 1–2 weeks depending on the size and type of the foundation and slabs
• Driveways and patios: Typically installed later and take 3–5 days, including finishing and clean-up

Concrete curing can take anywhere from 1 to 28 days, depending on its use. For example, light foot traffic may be allowed within 1–3 days, while structural loads or vehicle traffic might require the full 28-day cure time to reach peak strength.

Kimball Construction monitors every stage to keep your build on schedule without cutting corners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can concrete slabs be used for both patios and driveways?

Yes. Concrete slabs are ideal for driveways and patios thanks to their strength, durability, and low maintenance needs.

Do all concrete slabs need rebar?

Not necessarily. While many slabs include rebar or wire mesh, it’s not always required. Kimball Construction will evaluate your site and slab function to determine if reinforcement is needed.

Are foundation inspections only about structural integrity?

No. Inspectors also confirm that the foundation is located properly on the lot and complies with property lines and setback rules.

When are outdoor slabs like patios poured?

Patios and driveways are usually installed after the main structure is complete, to avoid damage during construction and ensure better finish quality.

Can I choose different finishes for my patio?

Yes. Decorative finishes like stamped patterns or exposed aggregate can add beauty to your outdoor spaces.

How do you prevent cracks in slabs?

We use proper curing methods, optional reinforcements, and expansion joints to control cracking and preserve long-term performance.

Conclusion

Foundations and concrete slabs are more than just the starting point—they’re the literal and figurative base of your new home. From slab-on-grade floors to inviting patios and smooth driveways, Kimball Construction ensures each element is expertly crafted, inspected, and finished. With a focus on structural integrity and curb appeal, we build homes that are made to last.

Let’s build your dream from the ground up. Contact Kimball Construction today to get started on your new home.