Do Not Let Your Concrete Retreat: Signs and Symptoms of Unhealthy Concrete

Spring has sprung! Although there are blooming flowers, chirping birds, and longer days, it also means lots of rain and even a snowstorm (or two)! We know the weather can change at the drop of a hat, but do not let your concrete fall victim. Continue reading to find out why your concrete sinks, why you should be concerned, and how we can help restore faith in your concrete!

Soil Washout: 

What they say is true, when it rains, it pours, and all that moisture can have adverse effects on the soil below your concrete. As water moves through the ground under the concrete slab, it can start to wash away the supporting soil holding up your concrete. As the soil washout continues, it creates voids and space underneath the slab. Over time, those voids grow, and your concrete begins to sink and cave in. 

Soil Compaction & Settling:  

Concrete is not a light material, and when the soil cannot support

its weight, the slab will sink. This can occur for numerous reasons, one being that the soil was not properly compacted when the slab was poured. When a soil’s load-bearing capacity is exceeded, the soil compacts and settles. As the soil expands and contracts beneath the concrete slab, the slab will sink and heave, leading to cracking and, eventually, sinking. 

Step on a Crack, Break your Wallets Back

While it is true that these issues occur over a period, there is no harm in understanding where you are most likely to see signs and symptoms of sinkage. It is of the utmost importance to address concrete concerns early to minimize damage and save your wallet some trouble. 

Cracked Concrete: Many homeowners may see cracked concrete as an eyesore, but it is a sign that your concrete is in trouble. Cracks are the first sign of a settling slab. As part of the slab starts to sink, it breaks off from the rest. If not fixed, the cracks will worsen over time. 

Sinking Sidewalks: Settling sidewalks around your home creates trip hazards. Sinking sidewalks are the easiest signs to catch but can worsen quickly and can cause safety hazards.  

Uneven Driveways and Garage Floors: Like sinking sidewalks, uneven driveways and garage floors are easily spotted and cause problems for homeowners. These slabs settle due to the added excess weight of vehicles begin parked and driven on.  

Sinking Stairs and Porches: In addition to taking away from your home’s curb appeal, sinking stairs and porches can create dangerous safety hazards when entering the home. If not treated, the stairs and porch will settle and sink further into the ground, increasing the tripping risk.