Concrete is the most widely used building material. Its use can be traced back to several ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and the Romans. In comparison with other construction materials, concrete is versatile and can be used to build different structures such as bridges, tunnels, and dams.
More importantly, concrete is cost-effective and requires little maintenance due to its strength and durability. The average strength of concrete is approximately 3,000 psi but it can reach up to 20,000 psi.
However, even if concrete structures can last centuries, they are still susceptible to damage. Though in most cases it occurs gradually, if left unattended it can have serious implications.
Therefore, anytime you notice any cracks or sunken concrete, it may be high time for concrete leveling to prevent further damage.
What Can Cause Your Concrete to Sink?
At times the soil below concrete is no longer able to support the weight of concrete. As a result, your floor may become uneven, begin to crack and thus require concrete leveling. This sinking is also known as slab settlement. It occurs when
The Soil Beneath Concrete is Washed Out
When water finds its way below concrete, either from leaking pipes or heavy rainfall, it can wash away the soil as it moves. As more and more soil is washed away, the remaining soil will be unable to support the concrete. As a result, the concrete or slab will begin to sink and crack.
Changes in the Moisture Content of Soil
Soil (especially clay) absorbs water and expands during wet seasons. When the dry season sets in the soil will begin to dry and then shrink. This shrinkage results in sections of concrete left unsupported and susceptible to slab settlement.
When the Fill Soil is Poorly Compacted
When a sidewalk, pavement or the foundation of a building is being constructed, the soil to support it must be tightly compacted. If it’s loose, it will not be able to support the slab above and cavities will form thus necessitating concrete crack repair.
Why Concrete Damage Should Be Fixed Immediately
To Avoid Liabilities
As a building owner, you are responsible for ensuring the safety of everyone in your property. Depressions or cracks on the floor can cause people to fall. Slip and fall accidents are actually among the leading causes of injuries.
This is especially important for commercial building owners. If a guest or customer is injured in your premise because of poor maintenance you might be liable to pay for
- Medical bills
- Emotional and psychological distress
- Lost income
However, with the right concrete crack repair service provider, you can ensure that your family, guests or clients are always safe.
To Increase the Value of Your Property
Owning a home is one of the greatest achievements anyone can have. More importantly, it provides security and can be a great investment as it can appreciate. However, for the resale value of your house to increase, it must be well maintained.
The value of your home can reduce by up to 15% because of a damaged foundation. As such, however insignificant any damage may seem, it should be fixed immediately. A crack may appear small and harmless but it could eventually lead to significant structural damage.
If damage to the foundation is not controlled early on, it could compromise the stability of your house. Here are some signs your foundation needs concrete leveling:
- Mortar joints are unlevel
- Doors and windows get stuck
- The floor is uneven
- Visible cracks inside and outside the house
- The chimney seems unstable or leaning to one side
- History of minor repairs
Bottom-Line
Though concrete is strong, certain elements can weaken it over time. As a homeowner, it is important to inspect your house from time to time. If you notice any damage, get in touch with a concrete leveling company to fix it for you. This will prevent further damage, increase the value of your property and more importantly ensure your family is safe.