Gravel Base Preparation for Concrete Pads

Typical Projects for

Our Gravel Prep Service

A strong concrete project starts from the ground up – literally. Groundbreaking Services specializes in preparing gravel pads for concrete foundations and slabs in Albuquerque and central New Mexico. Before pouring concrete, we prepare your pad with the proper gravel depth and compaction. Whether it’s a garage, shop, or sidewalk, we create a rock-solid base to build on. Our meticulous prep work ensures that your new concrete will have the support it needs for decades of durability.

We work closely with homeowners, builders, and concrete contractors to get sites ready for pour. First, we mark out and excavate the area to the required depth, accounting for the slab thickness plus our gravel layer. Then we bring in high-quality aggregate (crushed stone/gravel mix) and spread it evenly across the pad area. Our standard is at least a 6-inch-thick layer of compacted gravel for most projects – more if the soil is poor – to provide a stable, well-draining sub-base. Using our skid steer with grading attachments, we achieve a uniform spread and precise level. Next comes compaction: we use a vibratory roller on larger areas and a jumping jack compactor around edges and tight spots to pack the gravel tightly. The result is a firm, dense base that won’t settle or wash out under your concrete.

Concrete driveways and parking pads (ensure a sturdy base that prevents cracking under vehicles).

Garage and workshop slabs (a solid gravel foundation to support walls and heavy equipment).

Home additions and shed foundations (proper base preparation to meet building codes and prevent settling).

Sidewalks, patios, and walkways (evenly graded gravel beds so your concrete stays level and safe).

Throughout the process, we pay attention to proper slope and grade as needed. For example, if you’re preparing a driveway pad, we’ll ensure there’s a slight crown or slope for water runoff. If it’s a building foundation, we’ll make sure the pad is perfectly level and at the correct elevation. Before we finish, we’ll smooth out the top of the compacted gravel so it’s ready for formwork – a clean finish ready for forms and reinforcement. We can even assist with setting form boards upon request, or coordinate with your concrete installer to make the handoff seamless.

Why Choose

Our Gravel Pad Prep?

Investing in proper gravel prep now pays off with a trouble-free concrete slab later. Our experienced crew understands local soil conditions and the importance of doing base work right. With Groundbreaking Services preparing your concrete pad foundation, you can pour with confidence knowing the ground below is solid. Reach out to schedule our gravel pad prep service anywhere in the Albuquerque area – we’ll help you build from a rock-solid start.

Six-Inch Base Standard

We don’t cut corners on base thickness. Our standard prep includes a six-inch gravel layer (compacted), which provides superior support and drainage under concrete. Many small contractors might skimp on gravel, but we ensure your slab has the solid base it deserves.

Professional Compaction

Our team uses both heavy machinery and hand-operated compactors to achieve proper density. By using a skid steer for bulk spreading and a jumping jack compactor for tight spots, we eliminate soft areas. A well-compacted base means your concrete won’t settle or crack from voids underneath.

Form-Ready Finish

We take pride in leaving the site neat and precise. After grading and compacting, we give the pad a final smoothing so it’s immediately ready for concrete forms and pouring. There’s no extra cleanup or rework needed – your concrete crew can jump right in, saving you time.

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