Get Free Estimate

Slab & Foundation Construction | Concrete Floors Toronto
Premium concrete slab installation for basements, garages, and structural applications – level, durable, and built to last

Professional slab and foundation construction in Toronto. Basement slabs, garage floors, structural slabs. Quality concrete work. Call (437) 545-0067.
Slab & Foundation Construction | Concrete Floors Toronto in progress
⚠️ Licensed & Insured
⚡ Fast Response
Foundation crack Wall damage Basement leak Structural damage

Why Toronto Homeowners Trust DrySpace

25+ Years in Business
12,847 Projects Completed
$5M Insurance Coverage
24/7 Emergency Response

WSIB Certified

Full workplace safety insurance coverage for all workers

CSA Approved

Canadian Standards Association certified materials & methods

ISO 9001:2015

International quality management system certification

BBB A+ Rating

Better Business Bureau accredited with highest rating

Slab & Foundation Construction Services

Expert concrete slab installation for basements, garages, and structural applications. Quality workmanship ensures level, durable, and long-lasting concrete floors.

Types of Slabs We Install

Basement Floor Slabs

Essential for Dry, Usable Space

Components:

  • Compacted granular base
  • Vapor barrier membrane
  • Rigid foam insulation
  • Reinforcement mesh/rebar
  • Quality concrete mix

Features:

  • Proper slope to drains
  • Smooth, level finish
  • Control joints
  • Sealed penetrations
  • Optional heating tubes

Process:

  1. Excavation/preparation
  2. Gravel base installation
  3. Vapor barrier placement
  4. Insulation (if required)
  5. Steel reinforcement
  6. Concrete pour/finish

Garage Floor Slabs

Built for Vehicle Loads

Specifications:

  • 4-6" thickness minimum
  • 3500+ PSI concrete
  • Wire mesh or rebar
  • Proper drainage slope
  • Durable surface finish

Special features:

  • Floor drains
  • Slope to doors
  • Expansion joints
  • Non-slip finish
  • Chemical resistance

Options available:

  • Heated floors
  • Epoxy coatings
  • Integral color
  • Exposed aggregate
  • Polished concrete

Structural Slabs

Load-Bearing Applications

Types:

  • Suspended slabs
  • Post-tensioned slabs
  • Composite deck slabs
  • Waffle slabs
  • Two-way slabs

Engineering includes:

  • Load calculations
  • Reinforcement design
  • Deflection control
  • Shear requirements
  • Fire ratings

Slab-on-Grade

Ground-Supported Slabs

Applications:

  • House additions
  • Detached garages
  • Sheds/workshops
  • Patios
  • Industrial floors

Key elements:

  • Frost protection
  • Thickened edges
  • Proper subgrade
  • Moisture control
  • Joint placement

Construction Process

1. Site Preparation

  • Excavation to depth
  • Subgrade compaction
  • Verify elevations
  • Install utilities
  • Form installation

2. Base Preparation

  • Granular placement
  • Compaction testing
  • Fine grading
  • Vapor barrier
  • Insulation placement

3. Reinforcement

  • Chair/support installation
  • Rebar placement
  • Mesh positioning
  • Tie wire connections
  • Inspection approval

4. Concrete Placement

  • Mix design verification
  • Systematic pouring
  • Proper consolidation
  • Level/screed
  • Float finish

5. Finishing

  • Bull float
  • Edge work
  • Control joints
  • Surface texture
  • Curing process

Technical Specifications

Concrete Mix Design

Standard mixes:

  • Basement: 25 MPa minimum
  • Garage: 30 MPa minimum
  • Structural: 35+ MPa
  • Exterior: Air-entrained
  • Special: Fiber-reinforced

Admixtures used:

  • Water reducers
  • Accelerators
  • Retarders
  • Air entrainment
  • Fiber reinforcement

Reinforcement Options

  • 6x6 W1.4 wire mesh
  • #3 or #4 rebar grids
  • Fiber reinforcement
  • Post-tension cables
  • Structural steel

Joint Systems

Types and spacing:

  • Control joints: 10-15’ spacing
  • Expansion joints: At walls
  • Construction joints: Pour breaks
  • Isolation joints: Around columns
  • Sealant types: Various

Specialized Services

Radiant Floor Heating

In-slab heating systems:

  • PEX tubing layout
  • Manifold installation
  • Insulation requirements
  • Control systems
  • Energy efficiency

Benefits:

  • Even heat distribution
  • Energy savings
  • Comfort
  • Snow melting
  • No visible equipment

Decorative Concrete

Finish options:

  • Stamped patterns
  • Exposed aggregate
  • Integral color
  • Acid staining
  • Polished concrete

Applications:

  • Basement floors
  • Garage floors
  • Patios
  • Walkways
  • Commercial spaces

Moisture Control Systems

Preventing problems:

  • Vapor barriers
  • Waterproof membranes
  • Drainage layers
  • Sump pits
  • Perimeter drains

Testing available:

  • Moisture testing
  • Calcium chloride
  • Relative humidity
  • pH testing
  • Adhesion testing

Cost Considerations

Price Factors

  • Slab thickness
  • Site accessibility
  • Reinforcement type
  • Finish requirements
  • Special features

Typical Project Costs

  • 500 sq ft basement: $4,000-$6,000
  • 2-car garage: $6,000-$9,000
  • 1000 sq ft addition: $12,000-$18,000
  • Heated garage: $8,000-$12,000

Additional Costs

  • Excavation: $50-$100/cubic yard
  • Old slab removal: $3-$5/sq ft
  • Radiant heating: $8-$12/sq ft
  • Decorative finishes: $2-$8/sq ft
  • Vapor barriers: $0.50-$1/sq ft

Quality Control

During Construction

  • Subgrade testing
  • Concrete testing
  • Slump tests
  • Air content
  • Cylinder breaks

Finishing Standards

  • FF/FL numbers
  • Surface tolerance
  • Joint spacing
  • Crack control
  • Appearance

Long-term Performance

  • Proper curing
  • Joint maintenance
  • Surface sealers
  • Regular inspection
  • Warranty coverage

Common Problems Prevented

By Proper Design

  • Cracking
  • Settlement
  • Frost heave
  • Moisture issues
  • Surface defects

By Quality Installation

  • Uneven surfaces
  • Premature wear
  • Water problems
  • Structural failure
  • Costly repairs

Maintenance & Care

Initial Care

  • Curing period
  • Traffic restrictions
  • Temperature control
  • Moisture retention
  • Protection measures

Ongoing Maintenance

  • Joint sealing
  • Crack repair
  • Surface sealing
  • Cleaning methods
  • Preventive care

Green Building Options

Sustainable Materials

  • Recycled content
  • Local aggregates
  • Fly ash/slag
  • Reduced cement
  • Permeable options

Energy Efficiency

  • Insulated slabs
  • Thermal mass
  • Radiant barriers
  • Reflective surfaces
  • LEED points

Why Choose DrySpace

Our Advantages

  • Experienced crews
  • Modern equipment
  • Quality materials
  • Precise work
  • Warranty protection

Project Management

  • Clear scheduling
  • Daily updates
  • Clean sites
  • Safety focus
  • Final walkthrough

Get Started Today

Free estimate includes:

  • Site evaluation
  • Design consultation
  • Material options
  • Cost breakdown
  • Timeline planning

Call Now: (437) 545-0067

Quality concrete slabs built to last a lifetime.

Related Services

Complete Solutions for Your Basement

Since we're already working on your basement, consider these complementary services that save time and money when done together.

Professional Concrete Slab Solutions for Toronto Homes Professional Concrete Slab Solutions for Toronto Homes results

Professional Concrete Slab Solutions for Toronto Homes

A properly installed concrete slab forms the foundation of comfortable, dry living spaces. In Toronto’s climate, with its freeze-thaw cycles and varying soil conditions, professional slab installation makes the difference between a lifetime floor and costly failures. We specialize in basement slabs, garage floors, and structural applications, using techniques refined over 20 years of GTA projects.

Modern slab construction goes far beyond simply pouring concrete. Today’s systems incorporate vapor barriers, insulation, drainage layers, and precise reinforcement placement. For basement renovations, we often encounter 100-year-old dirt floors or deteriorating slabs poured without proper moisture protection. Our replacement process transforms these problem areas into dry, level surfaces ready for any flooring finish.

The investment in quality slab construction pays dividends through energy efficiency, moisture control, and structural integrity. Whether you’re finishing a basement, building a garage, or adding an addition, we ensure your concrete slab meets both current building codes and future needs. Our systematic approach includes soil analysis, proper base preparation, and quality concrete placement that creates floors lasting generations.

Advanced Techniques for Lasting Performance Advanced Techniques for Lasting Performance results

Advanced Techniques for Lasting Performance

Toronto’s unique challenges require specialized approaches to slab construction. The GTA’s clay soils can expand and contract significantly with moisture changes, potentially causing slab cracking or heaving. We address this with properly compacted granular bases, typically 6-8 inches of clear stone that provides stable support and drainage. This foundation layer is crucial for preventing the settlement issues common in older Toronto homes.

Moisture control represents another critical aspect of slab performance. We install 10-mil poly vapor barriers beneath all slabs, sealed at penetrations and lapped at joints. For basement applications, we often add rigid foam insulation, creating thermal breaks that prevent condensation and reduce heating costs by 15-20%. This attention to building science principles ensures comfortable, efficient spaces year-round.

Reinforcement design varies by application but always exceeds minimum standards. Basement slabs receive 6x6 W2.9 welded wire mesh or #3 rebar at 16" centers. Garage slabs require heavier reinforcement due to vehicle loads, typically #4 rebar at 12" centers. We position reinforcement at mid-depth using chairs, ensuring proper concrete coverage for corrosion protection. Control joints are cut within 24 hours to manage cracking, creating neat, straight lines rather than random cracks.

Specialized Services and Innovation Specialized Services and Innovation results

Specialized Services and Innovation

Radiant floor heating has become increasingly popular in Toronto homes, offering superior comfort and efficiency. We install hydronic tubing systems within slabs, working with mechanical contractors to ensure proper layout and controls. The thermal mass of concrete provides even heat distribution, eliminating cold spots common with forced-air systems. Installation adds $8-12 per square foot but can reduce heating costs by 20-30%.

For garage and commercial applications, we offer specialized finishes that enhance durability and appearance. Epoxy coatings provide chemical resistance and easy cleaning, while polished concrete creates an attractive, low-maintenance surface. These finishes transform utilitarian slabs into showpiece floors, particularly popular in Toronto’s condo garages and retail spaces.

Our approach to existing slab replacement minimizes disruption while ensuring superior results. We use specialized equipment for interior demolition, controlling dust and debris. The process typically takes 5-7 days for a standard basement, including removal, base preparation, and new concrete placement. We coordinate with other trades to relocate utilities and ensure proper drainage connections, delivering turnkey solutions that prepare spaces for immediate finishing.

Testimonials

What Our Customers Say

4.9/5 Average Rating
2800+ Happy Customers
Lifetime Warranty
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about slab & foundation construction | concrete floors toronto.

  • Concrete slab costs in Toronto depend on type, thickness, and site conditions:

    Basement Floor Slabs:

    • Basic 4" slab with vapor barrier: $8-10 per square foot
    • Insulated slab with drainage: $10-12 per square foot
    • Radiant heat slab: $18-22 per square foot

    Garage Floor Slabs:

    • Standard 4" slab: $10-12 per square foot
    • Heavy-duty 6" slab: $12-15 per square foot
    • With epoxy coating: $15-20 per square foot

    Additional costs:

    • Old slab removal: $3-5 per square foot
    • Excavation/base prep: $2-4 per square foot
    • Permits: $200-500

    A typical 600 square foot basement slab replacement costs $6,000-8,000 including removal and disposal. Larger projects often have lower per-square-foot costs due to efficiency.

  • Slab thickness requirements in Toronto depend on use and loads:

    Residential Applications:

    • Basement floors: 4 inches (100mm) minimum
    • Garage floors: 4-5 inches for cars, 6 inches for trucks
    • Patios/walkways: 4 inches
    • Driveways: 5-6 inches

    Commercial/Special Uses:

    • Workshop floors: 5-6 inches
    • Industrial: 6-8 inches or engineered
    • Heated slabs: 4 inches minimum above tubes

    Ontario Building Code specifies minimum 3.5 inches for residential basement slabs, but we recommend 4 inches for better performance. Thicker slabs resist cracking and provide better insulation value. Edge thickness often increases to 8-12 inches for frost protection. Our engineers calculate exact requirements based on soil conditions and intended loads.

  • Yes, we pour concrete year-round in Toronto using cold weather procedures:

    Winter Concrete Practices:

    • Heated enclosures maintain 10°C minimum
    • Hot water in mix design
    • Accelerating admixtures reduce set time
    • Insulation blankets for curing
    • Extended curing period (7 days minimum)

    Temperature Thresholds:

    • Above 5°C: Standard procedures
    • 0-5°C: Cold weather precautions
    • Below 0°C: Full winter protection
    • Below -10°C: Evaluate case-by-case

    Winter pours typically add 15-25% to costs due to heating, additives, and protection measures. However, interior slabs like basements can proceed year-round with minimal impact. We monitor concrete temperature for 72 hours ensuring proper strength gain. Many clients prefer winter work for interior projects due to contractor availability and competitive pricing.

  • Concrete gains strength progressively, with different uses allowed at various stages:

    Timeline for Use:

    • 24 hours: Light foot traffic, saw-cut control joints
    • 3 days: Normal foot traffic, remove forms
    • 7 days: Light construction activity
    • 14 days: Vehicle traffic (driveways/garages)
    • 28 days: Full design strength, heavy loads

    Finishing Activities:

    • Framing walls: 3-7 days
    • Installing flooring: 28 days (moisture dependent)
    • Epoxy coatings: 28 days minimum
    • Tile installation: 28 days, moisture test required

    Curing is critical for strength and durability. We use curing compounds or plastic sheeting to retain moisture for 7 days minimum. Basement slabs often require moisture testing before flooring installation – concrete releases moisture for several months. Premature loading or finishing can cause failures, so we provide detailed schedules for follow-up work.

Ready to Start Your Project?

Get a free inspection and detailed quote. No obligations, just honest advice.