A top-notch concrete slab serves as the backbone for any project, whether it’s a patio, driveway, or whatever structure that needs a strong foundation. If you want to maximize your property’s potential, it’s essential to ensure that your foundation is of the highest quality.

Unfortunately, not all concrete slabs are created equal. Better-quality slabs usually have the perfect mix of ingredients that’ll keep ’em strong, level, and long-lasting.

So, how can you get the best slab for your property? Here’s a cost guide on everything you need to consider if you’re looking to get a concrete slab installed.

Factors Affecting Concrete Slab Cost

Before you splurge on the most premium concrete slab you can find, consider a few factors first. These factors can help you save money.

Size of the slab: Bigger slabs will understandably set you back a bit more, seeing as you’ll need more concrete to get them done.

Site preparation: As for site prep, depending on the terrain, you might have to clear away rocks, level the ground, and remove any obstacles. This’ll take extra time, and if you don’t feel like a bit of DIY, calling in some pros will add to the cost.

Type of concrete: There are different mixes and strengths, and some of the fancy ones can cost a pretty penny. If you need something special for a specific project, you might have to dig deeper into your wallet.

Reinforcement and accessories: The steel rebar or welded wire mesh used to reinforce the slab can also make the prices go up. Or perhaps you need some expansion joints or control joints to prevent cracking from regular wear and tear – these can all make the price tag jump.

Labour and installation costs: If you get the experts in to mix, pour, and finish the slab, they will want their fair share for the job. Don’t forget, though, that sometimes it’s worth shelling out the cash for a professional touch – you’ll rest easy knowing that the end result will be top-notch!

Cost Breakdown of Concrete Slabs

Concrete slabs in Australia typically range from $50 on the low end to around $150 per square metre at the high end. The average across the board is about $70 to $90.

But what is included in this price tag, you may be wondering? Here’s a breakdown:

Material Costs

The average cost of concrete per cubic metre in Australia ranges from $200 to $300. Getting that concrete from the plant to your site also requires quite a bit of cash. Boral, one of Australia’s biggest construction materials companies, mentions a standard national transport charge of $1.31 per m3 of concrete. However, the total delivery fee will largely depend on the site’s location.

As for accessories and reinforcements, here are some of the most commonly used ones and their price at some of Australia’s favourite hardware stores:

• Reinforcements: Can’t build a sturdy slab without some good reinforcements, right? Whether you decide on steel mesh or fibre, it’s gonna cost you a bit. Steel reinforcements like SL62 mesh, for instance, could set you back about $70 to $90 per sheet.
• Expansion Joints: Expansion joints are your mates, they allow your slab to expand a little when temp rises and contract when it goes down without causing hairline cracks. A roll of joint material (like Bitumen-impregnated fibre board) can be found for around $30 for a 12 mm x 2.4 m roll.
• Concrete Sealers: These are a great add-on to protect your new slab from water, chipping and cracks. You can expect to fork out around $50 to $100 per 5L, depending on the brand and type.
• Concrete Curing Compound: This helps in slow drying of the slab and preventing cracks. Cost can vary, but you’re generally looking at about $80 to $90 for a 20L drum.

Labour Costs

Don’t forget about the labour costs! You’ll need to factor in the cost of having someone pour your slab and cutting any holes for drains or pipes. The cost can vary, but you can expect to pay around $20 to $40 per hour for a skilled concrete pourer.

Additional Costs

Then there are the extra expenses often overlooked in a concrete slab cost. These include:

• Permits: Before you start measuring out and pouring the new slab, you might need a permit depending on local rules and regulations. Obtaining council approval also involves costs. Permit costs can vary greatly, but you’re probably looking at dishing out somewhere between $100 to $350. Just make sure you check in with your local council first.
• Removal of Existing Slabs: If you’ve got an old slab that needs to be removed, you might need to account for demolition costs. This could simply mean the cost of a jackhammer rental (around $100 per day), or it could mean hiring a professional (which can range from $1,000 to $10,000 or more) depending on the size and complexity of the job.
• Site Preparation: If you need to do a bit of earthmoving to make room for your slab, you could be shelling out anywhere from $50 to $150 per hour for an excavator. The overall cost will obviously depend on how long it takes to get your site prepped.

Average Prices of Concrete Slabs

Standard Slabs: A fundamental, ordinary concrete slab, also known as a plain slab, could cost anywhere from about $60 to $85 per square metre. This is perfect for places like your garage or outdoor entertaining area where functionality tops aesthetics.

Decorative Slabs: If you’re after something with a bit more character, decorative slabs could be your go-to. These beauties come in a range of finishes like stamped, stained, or polished and offer a nice spruce-up to your backyard or patio area.

Naturally, you can expect a higher price for these slabs, as they require additional labor and materials. For instance, coloured concrete could cost around $75 to $95 per square metre, stamped concrete might set you back from $100 to $150 per square metre, and an exposed aggregate finish could cost you about $100 to $150 per square metre.

Tips for Minimising Concrete Slab Costs

It’s always a good idea to save some hard-earned cash on your concrete slab project. Here are a few tips that might help you do just that:

Compare Multiple Quotes

First things first, it’s a wise move to get a handful of quotes before jumping straight in with the first tradie you find. Let’s be honest: not everyone with a concrete mixer offers the same value for money. Comparing quotes from different tradies lets you gauge the range of prices and choose who’s best for your budget and project.

Optimise Project Size

Bit of common sense here – the bigger the slab, the more it’s gonna cost you! If possible, plan your project size smartly. There’s no sense in overdoing it with a massive slab if a smaller one will do the job just as well. Work out what you really need and optimise the size of your concrete slab to save heaps on materials and labour.

Avoid Unnecessary Accessories

Decorative concrete sure looks nice, but sometimes simple is the go. Opt for standard concrete if you’re looking to save a few bucks. Decorative finishes and extra accessories like special sealers or additional reinforcements might look the part, but they can add unnecessary dollars to your final price.