What Goes Into a Concrete Pad? Finishes, Features & Options Explained

Jon
Jun 22
3 min read

If you're researching the cost of a concrete pad in Ontario, chances are you’ve seen a wide range of prices. But what many homeowners don’t realize is that the final cost depends heavily on what goes into the pad itself—from the type of finish you choose to the level of prep and reinforcement beneath the surface.

This guide will break down the core components that affect your concrete pad’s appearance, durability, and price—so you can make the best decision for your property and budget.

What Is a Concrete Pad (and What Is It Used For)?

A concrete pad is a flat slab of concrete poured and leveled to create a solid, long-lasting surface. In Ontario, pads are commonly used for:

Sheds
Hot tubs
Outdoor kitchens
BBQ areas
Walkways or landing areas
Driveways or parking extensions
Base for garages or additions

A properly built concrete pad not only supports heavy loads—it also resists cracking, shifting, and frost damage for decades if done right.

Surface Finish Options for Your Concrete Pad

One of the biggest decisions that affects both the look and cost of your pad is the surface finish. Here are the top three options we offer at The Art of Concrete:

🧹 Broom Finish (Most Affordable)

Best for: Utility areas, garages, simple patios
Look: Light texture with brush strokes for slip resistance
Pros: Budget-friendly, quick to install, durable
Cons: Basic look, limited decorative value

🧱 Stamped Concrete (Decorative & Textured)

Best for: Patios, walkways, pool decks
Look: Mimics natural stone, slate, or brick with color and texture
Pros: High-end aesthetic, customizable patterns and colors
Cons: Higher cost, needs resealing every few years

🪨 Exposed Aggregate (Premium & Slip-Resistant)

Best for: Front steps, porches, walkways
Look: Natural stones exposed on the surface for texture and contrast
Pros: Beautiful finish, great grip in winter, long-lasting
Cons: Slightly more expensive than broom or standard stamped

Reinforcement: Rebar vs Fiber Mesh

What’s underneath your concrete matters just as much as the finish.

Rebar Grid (Preferred Method):
- Steel rods hand-tied into a grid
- Offers strong crack control and structural support
- Ideal for driveways, heavy-use areas, or pads over 5" thick
Fiber Mesh (Budget Option):
- Plastic fibers mixed into the concrete
- Helps with surface-level cracking but not load-bearing
- Best for light-use slabs or interior work

At The Art of Concrete, we typically recommend rebar for outdoor pads exposed to freeze-thaw cycles and heavier loads.

The Foundation: Base Prep, Compaction & Thickness

A concrete pad is only as good as its base. Here’s what we do before pouring:

Excavation: 6"–24" depth depending on soil, use, and drainage
Premium A-Gravel Base: 6"–12" compacted in layers for stability
Concrete Thickness: Usually 5"–6" for patios and walkways; up to 7" for driveways or load-bearing slabs
Compaction: Every layer is machine-compacted to prevent shifting or settling

Skipping these steps is a shortcut to cracks, water pooling, and surface failure.

Drainage & Slope Considerations

In Ontario, water management is key—especially with snow and freeze-thaw cycles. We design your pad with a gentle slope to ensure proper drainage away from your home, preventing water buildup or heaving.

We also offer drainage upgrades like:

Built-in slopes
French drains
Water diversion channels

So, What’s the Best Finish for Your Concrete Pad?

It depends on your goals:

On a tight budget? Broom finish gets the job done.
Want something decorative and stylish? Stamped concrete adds curb appeal.
Need maximum durability and traction? Go with exposed aggregate.

If you're unsure, we’re happy to walk you through the options during an onsite estimate.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to building a concrete pad in Ontario, the price tag is only part of the story. The finish, reinforcement, base prep, and drainage all play major roles in the cost, lifespan, and appearance of your project.

At The Art of Concrete, we take the time to do it right—from the ground up.