Rib and Block Slabs are suspended floors made of precast concrete ribs, hollow concrete or polystyrene blocks between them, and a reinforced concrete topping. They are the most common first-floor slab in South African homes. Send one request and independent suppliers and installers reply with prices.
Describe your project once to get rib and block slabs quotes.
Request a QuoteWhat the Work Includes
- Layout and design. Supplier layout drawing and engineer approval.
- Supply. Precast ribs and concrete or polystyrene blocks.
- Propping. Temporary props under the ribs.
- Steel. Mesh and any extra bars over supports.
- Topping. Concrete topping poured and finished.
- De-propping. Props removed once the slab has cured.
Suitable Projects
First floors of double-storey homes, flat roofs, balconies, townhouses and small commercial buildings.
Available Systems
- Concrete blocks. Heavier, robust and widely available.
- Polystyrene blocks. Lighter, faster to lay and better insulated.
- Deeper ribs. For longer spans, as designed.
How the System Is Chosen
The span, loads and ceiling finish decide the rib depth and block type. The supplier designs the layout and the engineer approves it.
Project Process
- Plans. Send the floor plan with spans.
- Layout. Supplier produces a rib and block layout.
- Quote. Supply-only or supply-and-install prices.
- Install. Props, ribs, blocks and steel.
- Inspect and pour. Engineer inspection, then topping.
- Cure and de-prop. Props stay until the slab is strong enough.
Rib and Block Slabs Prices
Ballpark prices so you can sanity-check a quotation.
| Item | Ballpark price |
|---|---|
| Rib and block supply only | R250 - R550 per m² |
| Supplied and installed, with topping | R850 - R1,300 per m² |
| Polystyrene block upgrade | R50 - R150 per m² extra |
| Typical 60 m² first floor, installed | R55,000 - R80,000 |
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 ribs.
- Block type. Polystyrene costs more but is lighter.
- Height. Taller props and cranes add cost.
- Access. Ribs must be lifted into place.
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.
Rib and Block Slabs FAQs
How much is a rib and block slab per m²?
Roughly R850 to R1,300 per m² supplied and installed with topping, excluding VAT. Supply only is about R250 to R550 per m².
How long do props stay in?
Commonly several weeks. The supplier or engineer gives the de-propping time.
Polystyrene or concrete blocks?
Polystyrene is lighter and insulates better. Concrete blocks are cheaper per block. Both work when designed correctly.
Do I need an engineer?
Yes. The layout and steel should be approved and inspected by an engineer before the pour.
Related Services
Raft Foundations South Africa passes your request to independent rib and block suppliers and installers. 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.
Rib and Block 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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