Coffer Slabs, also called waffle slabs, are in-situ concrete slabs with a grid of ribs formed by reusable pods. They span further than a solid slab of the same weight. Send one request and independent contractors reply with prices.
Describe your project once to get coffer slabs quotes.
Request a QuoteWhat the Work Includes
- Design. Engineer's coffer layout and steel.
- Pods and decking. Hired or owned coffer moulds on props.
- Reinforcement. Rib bars and top mesh.
- Concrete. Pour and vibration around the pods.
- Stripping. Pods removed and cleaned.
- Exposed finish. Where the waffle soffit is left visible.
Suitable Projects
Large open-plan homes, parking decks, shopping centres, schools, offices and roofs over wide spans with few columns.
Available Systems
- One-way ribbed slab. Ribs in one direction.
- Two-way waffle slab. Ribs both ways for square bays.
- Solid heads. Solid zones around columns.
How the System Is Chosen
Span, loads, column grid and whether the soffit is exposed decide the pod size and rib depth.
Project Process
- Design. Engineer sets grid and pod depth.
- Decking. Props and decking erected.
- Pods. Pods laid out and fixed.
- Steel. Rib and mesh steel.
- Pour. Concrete placed in one or more pours.
- Strip. Pods and props removed as instructed.
Coffer Slabs Prices
Ballpark prices so you can sanity-check a quotation.
| Item | Ballpark price |
|---|---|
| Coffer or waffle slab, installed | R1,800 - R3,200 per m² |
| Coffer pod hire | R80 - R200 per m² per use |
| Engineer's coffer slab design | R15,000 - R60,000 |
Prices JUST UPDATED. Indicative ballpark figures in rand, rounded and excluding VAT. They reflect typical South African market rates for this kind of work. They are not our prices or quotations, and no contractor is bound by them. Confirm VAT, delivery, steel, concrete and what each quotation includes.
Get prices for your project rather than a range. Send one request, with no obligation.
Request a QuoteWhat Affects Cost and Timelines
- Span. Longer spans need deeper pods.
- Exposed soffit. Higher finish quality costs more.
- Area. Pod hire suits larger, repeated areas.
- Height. Taller props add cost.
What to Send for an Accurate Quote
- Your name, email and phone or WhatsApp number.
- Your town or suburb.
- The service you need.
- The approximate size, such as floor area in m² or wall length and height.
- A short project description and your preferred start date.
- Whether you have approved plans, engineer's drawings or a soil report.
Plans, drawings and photos can be shared with the contractor you choose once you are in contact.
Coffer Slabs FAQs
What is the difference between a coffer and waffle slab?
They are the same thing. Both names describe a ribbed slab cast over pods.
Why use a coffer slab?
It spans further with less concrete, so fewer columns are needed.
Can the waffle ceiling be left exposed?
Yes, if the formwork and concrete finish are specified for it.
Is a coffer slab good for a house?
For large open spans, it can be. For standard rooms, rib and block is usually cheaper.
Related Services
Raft Foundations South Africa passes your request to independent structural concrete contractors. Foundation and slab designs are project-specific, so confirm the design with a registered engineer and get a written quotation before you pay a deposit.
Coffer Slabs. Describe your project once and get the best quote, fast.
Request a QuoteGet the Best Quote, Fast
Keep it brief. Give your location, the service, the approximate project size and a short description. With your consent, your enquiry is passed only to independent contractors suited to the job, and you decide whether to go ahead.
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