Solid foundations for anything you build on top. Slabs, bases, platforms and structural concrete — prepared, poured and finished properly.
Concrete work is the foundation of everything else we do at IGE Group — and we treat it with the seriousness it deserves. A poorly laid slab will crack, shift, and cause problems with whatever sits on top of it. We don't rush it, and we don't cut corners on sub-base depth or reinforcement.
We lay concrete bases and slabs for log cabins, SIP buildings, garages, sheds, workshops, garden rooms, and outdoor platforms. We also undertake standalone concrete jobs — hardstandings, parking areas, pathways, and step construction.
Every job starts with proper excavation to the right depth. We install a compacted sub-base (MOT Type 1 or similar), set up formwork, add steel reinforcement mesh where required, and pour to the correct mix. The surface is hand-finished to a clean, even face — either a smooth power float finish or a brushed non-slip texture depending on use.
We use ready-mixed concrete from a local supplier for larger pours to ensure consistent quality and the correct mix design for the application.
Concrete Works
Area marked out accurately, levels set with a laser or dumpy level. Getting this right at the start means the finished slab is true and drains correctly.
Topsoil and soft ground removed to the required depth. Spoil disposed of or redistributed on site as agreed. Ground compacted before sub-base goes in.
150–200mm of MOT Type 1 aggregate laid and compacted in layers using a plate compactor. This prevents settlement and gives the slab a solid, stable platform.
Timber shuttering set up to the correct dimensions and levels. Edge profiles checked and secured to hold the pour in shape while it cures.
Reinforcement mesh placed on bar chairs at the correct cover depth. Mesh laps tied at joints. Structural reinforcement specified for heavier loads or vehicular use.
Ready-mix delivered and poured. Tamped, vibrated to remove air pockets, and finished to a clean surface. Curing compound applied to prevent surface cracking.
We visit to assess the area, check ground conditions and access, then provide a full written quote.
Ground prepared, dug to depth, sub-base laid and compacted. Formwork set at correct levels and profiles.
Steel mesh laid, ready-mix ordered and poured on the agreed day. Concrete vibrated and levelled across the full area.
Surface finished to your spec. Curing compound applied, formwork removed at the right time. Site left clean.
Concrete achieves around 70% of its final strength within 7 days, and 95%+ by 28 days. For most garden cabin or shed bases, we recommend waiting a minimum of 7–10 days before placing a structure on it — ideally 14 days if weather has been cold or wet during the curing period.
We'll advise you on the right waiting period for your specific pour depending on the time of year and the load going on top.
Not always — ground screws or treated timber bearers are also valid foundation options for log cabins in particular. However, a concrete slab is generally the most stable, long-term solution and is strongly recommended for SIP buildings and any structure over 20 sqm.
For the Kent soil conditions we typically work in (predominantly clay), a concrete slab also protects against seasonal movement that can cause a timber bearer frame to shift over time.
Yes. Vehicular areas require a deeper construction — typically 150mm of concrete over 200mm of compacted sub-base, with structural steel reinforcement. We will specify the correct build-up for your loading requirement at the quote stage.
Note that hard-surfaced driveways over 5 square metres may require planning permission in some areas due to surface water run-off regulations. We can advise on this when we visit.
We use a rotating laser level to set all edge profiles before the pour begins. During the pour, we screed off the laser-set profiles with a straight edge, then check the finished level with a spirit level before the concrete sets.
Level setting is one of the most important parts of the job — a slab that is out by even 10mm can cause problems with door alignment, drainage, and the structural behaviour of whatever sits on top.
Describe your project and we'll come out for a free site visit and quote.
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