If you’ve ever wondered why concrete slab foundations crack, you’re not alone. The underlying cause for this phenomenon is the repeated freezing and thawing of moisture inside the foundation. The repeated freezing and thawing of moisture can wear down the aggregate, which eventually leads to the concrete crumbling and cracking. However, there are some preventative measures you can take.
The first step is to get a free quote from a professional foundation repair contractor. These experts will assess your home’s condition and recommend a repair plan. The inspection can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour and will help you identify early warning signs of a cracking foundation. You can then choose the best option for your home’s foundation, according to your budget and the severity of the problem.
Another cause of concrete slab foundation cracking is improper site preparation. A poorly prepared site may cause uneven settling of the home, which can cause the concrete slab to crack. Additionally, erosion can wash out the soil beneath the footer, causing the slab to shift or become pressured. A crack in the concrete is a sign that the support underneath the slab is failing. While the crack may be minor, it can eventually lead to more serious structural issues.
If you notice cracks in your foundation, don’t panic. It’s probably the most common cause of foundation problems. It can be caused by extreme changes in weather. In some cases, the melted snow causes an unexpected flood, and that water will widen existing cracks. Similarly, the reduction in moisture in the subsoil causes the soil to shrink. This can cause dangerous slab movement.
Steps to Diagnose the Cracks
Generally, the first step is to diagnose the cracks. You can use a steel brush to remove small cracks, but larger cracks in the foundation require power tools or a large chisel. Cracks in your foundation are a sign of a bigger problem, and it’s better to consult a structural engineer or a geotechnical engineer.
Step Two
There are several other factors that can cause cracks in the concrete slab. Some of these can be as simple as plumbing under the slab. Other causes include faulty installation, poor mixing of concrete, or improper setting of joints and supports. These may not be detrimental to the safety of your home, but if the foundation isn’t stable, it may mean serious problems.
Different Cracks that Form in a Concrete Slab
There are three types of cracks that form in a concrete slab. The first type is called a shrinkage crack and is usually smaller than an eighth of an inch. The second type is called an active crack and has higher sides. If the crack is large and has several high sides, it’s likely to be an active crack. Cracks in concrete usually require increasing amounts of repair over time if left untreated.
What Are the Cracks Caused By
Cracks in a concrete slab foundation can be caused by a number of factors, including the presence of tree roots. While minor cracks are perfectly normal, larger cracks should be investigated by a foundation repair company. It is important to remember that concrete is a pliable material and will expand and contract as it absorbs moisture.
Another major cause of cracks in a concrete slab foundation is excess moisture. When moisture builds up beneath the concrete slab, it can heave the concrete slab. This can occur even with normal weather conditions. This means that you should avoid putting too much water around the foundation of your home.
Cracks in a concrete slab foundation can be a warning sign of foundation problems. Cracked foundations can affect the entire structure of a building. In fact, if left untreated, these cracks could weaken the structure of the building, which could require costly repairs. If you’re considering a renovation project, check for cracks in your concrete slab foundation.
How Can We Help?
A number of methods are available for repairing a cracked concrete slab foundation. Each method provides varying levels of strength and durability. The method you choose should depend on the nature of your home and the type of crack. For example, if you’re building a large home, you’ll need a more durable foundation than a smaller one. If you are looking for foundation repairs in Gainesville contact Concrete Gainesville Pros!