Pouring a concrete slab costs $6 to $12 per square foot, depending on the thickness, size, and purpose. Concrete patios are typically 4 inches thick and range from a basic broom-swept finish to complex colors, stamping, and designs.

Concrete slab garage floors, driveways, and foundations are typically 6 inches thick and require wire mesh or rebar reinforcement to make sure it's durable enough to withstand the weight of heavy vehicles or a house.

A concrete contractor builds or repairs concrete driveways, concrete foundations, concrete slabs and patios, concrete sidewalks and steps, walls, and other concrete work. Concrete pavers handle every step of the process, from site preparation to mixing and pouring the concrete. Concrete driveway contractors also provide concrete resurfacing or leveling.

A concrete slab is a flat, horizontal surface area that's used to pave outdoor areas or support the weight of vehicles or buildings. Most homeowners use poured or pre-cast concrete slabs for:

• Patios
• Driveways
• Home foundations
• Garage floors

Concrete slabs, floors, and stairs typically last 30 to 50 years or over 100 years if properly sealed and maintained. Concrete cracks and may not last as long in cold climates where the ground freezes regularly. Driveways and patios are exposed to the elements and typically have shorter lifespans than foundations or garage floors that are more protected.

Small cracks or small damaged areas can be repaired or resurfaced for less than a full replacement. However, you should consider replacing concrete if it is over 40 years old or if you notice:

• Major cracks
• Crumbling
• Sinking edges
• Warping or potholes
• Pooling water or poor drainage

Poured concrete dries in multiple stages: After 1 to 2 days, it's dry enough for a person or pet to walk on it without leaving footprints. After 1 to 2 weeks, you can drive on concrete. After 28 to 48 days, the concrete is completely dry and considered fully cured.

You can pour a small concrete slab yourself as long as you plan and prepare. Concrete is difficult and costly to remove once it sets if not done properly, so be sure to take the proper precautions:

• Make sure you have enough concrete before starting.
• Measure and install your form carefully.
• Wait until the weather is dry and warm before pouring.
• Remove grass and vegetation before starting.
• Coat the wooden for with oil or a concrete release agent for easy removal.

Cement and concrete are often used interchangeably, but they’re not the same thing. Cement is made mainly of limestone and is an ingredient in concrete. Concrete is a mixture of roughly 10% cement, 20% water, 30% sand, and 40% gravel.

Before hiring a concrete contractor near you, follow these steps:

• Get at least three local quotes to compare.
• Look for a licensed, bonded, insured company that have been in business 5+ years.
• Look for concrete contractors who are experienced in pouring concrete slabs.
• Check out their HomeGuide and Google ratings.
• Avoid the lowest bids, which usually indicate low quality work.
• Get an itemized quote and contract in writing.
• Never pay in full or in cash before the job is complete.

Ask these questions to find a quality concrete contractor:

• How long have you been working with concrete?
• Do you have pictures of similar jobs you’ve done?
• Can I get a line-item estimate?
• What kind of site preparation will this project require?
• How much concrete will I need for this?
• Should I use a pre-cast slab for this or pour it on site?
• How thick does the concrete need to be?
• Will you need to reinforce the concrete?
• What does it cost to remove existing concrete?
• Can you seal, stain, or stamp the concrete? How much will that cost?
• How long does it take concrete to fully dry?
• What kind of maintenance will it need?
• Do you offer guarantees or a warranty?