How to Replace a Concrete Garage Floor in Ottawa
A concrete garage floor in Ottawa takes a beating—harsh winters, road salt, moisture, and heavy use all take their toll over time. When cracking, spalling, or sinking becomes too severe for repairs, replacement is often the best solution. At SRS Construction Inc., we specialize in concrete garage floor replacement and repairs across the Ottawa area. Here’s a step-by-step overview of how we tackle this essential upgrade.
Step 1: Evaluate the Existing Garage Floor
Before beginning any work, a professional assessment is needed to determine the extent of damage. Some common signs your garage floor may need replacing include:
- Widespread cracking or crumbling
- Uneven surfaces or sunken areas
- Poor drainage or water pooling
- Concrete separating from the foundation walls
In many cases, replacing the slab ensures a longer-lasting and more reliable solution than patchwork repairs.
Step 2: Demolition and Removal
Once replacement is confirmed, the existing concrete floor is carefully broken up and removed using demolition equipment. We ensure proper disposal of all debris and take precautions to avoid damaging the surrounding foundation or structure
Step 3: Base Preparation
A strong base is critical for a durable concrete floor. In Ottawa’s freeze-thaw climate, this step is especially important:
Gravel Base: A layer of compacted crushed stone is added for stability and drainage.
Excavation: We make sure to remove weak or saturated soil.
Step 4: Formwork and Reinforcement
We build sturdy form work around the perimeter of the garage and install fiber mesh or wire mesh for reinforcement. This strengthens the slab and helps prevent future cracking.
Step 5: Pouring the New Concrete
Our team pours fresh concrete—typically 4 to 6 inches thick—into the prepared area, ensuring proper grading for drainage. We use professional techniques for leveling and finishing to create a broom finish or smooth, even surface that looks great and performs well.
6: Finishing, Saw Cuts, and Curing
The surface is finished with a smooth or broom texture, depending on preference and use. To prevent random cracking, we perform saw-cut expansion joints within 24 – 48 hours after pouring. These control joints allow the concrete to expand and contract properly with Ottawa’s changing seasons.
Curing time usually takes 7 days for light use, and 28 days for full strength.
