Concrete Slabs & Flatwork

What is Concrete Flatwork?

Flatwork is any horizontal concrete surface that sits level with the ground. This includes slabs for sheds, garage floors, equipment pads, RV parking areas, basketball courts, and any other flat surface you need. It is called flatwork because, unlike vertical structures like walls, it is poured flat and finished smooth or textured.

In Maricopa, we pour flatwork for all kinds of projects. Homeowners need slabs for storage sheds, workshops, and outdoor kitchens. Businesses need equipment pads for HVAC units, generators, and machinery. Whatever you are building, we make sure the slab is strong, level, and built to handle the load.

The difference between a slab that holds up and one that cracks or settles comes down to how it is installed. We take the time to prep the base correctly, use the right thickness, and add reinforcement where needed. That extra effort up front saves you money and headaches later.

Common Flatwork Projects

Here are some of the most common concrete slab and flatwork projects we do in Maricopa:

• Shed and storage building pads: A solid slab keeps your shed level and protects your belongings from moisture and pests
• Garage floors: A smooth, durable floor that handles vehicle weight and makes cleaning easy
• RV and boat parking pads: Extra-thick slabs designed to support heavy vehicles without cracking
• Equipment pads: Slabs for air conditioning units, pool equipment, generators, and other machinery
• Workshop and work areas: Clean, level surfaces for workbenches, tools, and projects
• Basketball and sport courts: Flat, smooth surfaces for outdoor recreation
• Dog runs and kennel areas: Easy-to-clean surfaces that keep pets safe and comfortable

If you are not sure what you need, we will help you figure it out. We have done hundreds of these projects and can recommend the right thickness, reinforcement, and finish based on how you plan to use the space.

How We Build Slabs That Last

A quality slab starts with proper preparation. Here is how we do it:

Base Preparation

We excavate the area, remove any loose or unstable soil, and bring in compacted fill if needed. Then we add a layer of gravel and compact it thoroughly. This gives the concrete a stable base that will not settle or shift over time.

Proper Thickness

Most residential slabs are 4 inches thick, which works fine for sheds, patios, and light equipment. If you are parking vehicles, storing heavy equipment, or building a garage, we pour at least 6 inches. The extra thickness prevents cracking and gives the slab enough strength to handle the load.

Reinforcement

We add wire mesh or rebar to every slab we pour. This reinforcement holds the concrete together if it does crack and prevents small cracks from becoming big problems. For heavy-duty slabs, we use thicker rebar and place it closer together for extra strength.

Finishing

We finish the surface based on how you will use it. Garage floors and work areas get a smooth trowel finish. Outdoor slabs get a broom finish for traction. If you want something decorative, we can add color or texture. When you work with CityView Maricopa Concrete, you get to choose the finish that works best for your project.

Why Base Prep Matters

The biggest mistake people make with concrete slabs is skipping or rushing the base preparation. If the ground underneath is not stable, the slab will settle, crack, or break apart over time. No amount of thick concrete or fancy finishing can fix a bad base.

Here in Maricopa, the soil can shift and settle, especially if it was recently disturbed or filled in. We take the time to compact the base properly so your slab sits on solid ground. We also make sure the grade is correct so water drains away from the slab instead of pooling on top or underneath.

This part of the job takes longer and costs more up front, but it is the difference between a slab that lasts decades and one that becomes a problem in a few years. We have seen too many slabs fail because someone cut corners on the base work. We do not take shortcuts, and you get a slab that performs the way it should.

Frequently Asked Questions