Water, the Universal Solvent. Water is called the universal solvent because it is capable of dissolving more substances than any other liquid. This is important to every living thing on earth. It means that wherever water goes, either through the air, the ground, or through our bodies, it takes along valuable chemicals, minerals, and nutrients. It is water's chemical composition and physical attributes that make it such an excellent solvent.
Cost breakdown. 1  Materials: Poured slab concrete typically costs $3-$5 per square foot. Footings 1 can add an additional $1-$2 per square foot. 2  Labor: labor costs from contractors or concrete specialists typically adds another $2-$3 per square foot, for a total of $2000-$3000 for this project.
Enhancement and improvement costs. Costs of installing stone slab countertops can be increased by a variety of additional factors: fabrication complexity, type of edging, special treatments, customized cuts as well as additions such as sinks, etc. The price for fancy edging can cost up to $20 per linear feet more than standard edging.