Top 3 Concrete Slab Foundation Problems

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

Since the 1980’s, concrete slab foundations have become the first step in constructing a home. The typical foundation is poured over the top soil and is reinforced by rebar. Although slab foundations have replaced a crawl space, slabs can experience problems.

Disruption

Unlike settlement a slab foundation can happen in areas. This could be because of moisture in the soil or simply a poorly designed foundation. Some signs of disruption will occur in the walls, floors, and countertops as they will not be level. To help prevent disruption install proper drainage to illuminate unwanted moisture from the soil.

Cracks

Cracks in the foundation can be from many factors including disruption from weather and settling. Once cracked, the concrete slab will separate the joints and allow bugs, water, and moisture to enter the home. Sometimes foundations will experience just a hair line fracture. However, the littlest crack will grow into a bigger crack. Every home will experience settling because it is a natural process that the home sinks into the ground. Settling however can become more disastrous if not properly reinforced.

Improper Design

Finally, a slab that is not properly designed can be the top reason for a disaster to strike in the foundation. Having an engineer who take a proper geological survey can prevent cataclysmic problems in a slab foundation. By not following professional recommendations for foundations a home could be at risk. Surveyors will give the recommendations and statistics as to what kind foundation should be used with what soil type is present. Therefore, to keep a foundation safe one should always call a professional.