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The 10 10 rule describes the formula most contractors use to determine how much to charge for a job. Allowing for 10% overhead above the total projected cost to do the work and 10% profit sets a contractor up for success, even if there are delays or other problems on the project. This formula isn’t a hard-and-fast rule, but it is a ballpark figure to begin with when estimating your expenses on a job.

Their expertise in identifying potential problems early and implementing durable solutions safeguards your home’s integrity.

A structural engineer’s report includes a professional assessment of a property’s foundation condition, structural elements like roof trusses and floor joists, and the skeleton of the home, including studs, beams, and rafters. It will also usually include an assessment of drainage on the property and any potential issues that could arise from environmental conditions, like extreme weather in the area and even tree placement.

A 4-inch-thick concrete slab can support around 4,000 pounds per square foot if a contractor reinforces the slab with rebar, while that same slab without reinforcements will support closer to 1,000 pounds. For the purposes of a patio, 4 inches in thickness without reinforcement should suffice unless you’re installing heavy kitchen equipment or a hot tub on it. In those cases, reinforcing your slab and sticking with 4 inches of thickness should provide plenty of strength.