3 Common Reasons for Cracked or Uneven Concrete

Dry out:

Soil will compact and settle on its own, especially when it’s supporting weight. How much weight soil can support depends on the type? When soil is generally made up of clay or silt it is more likely to shrink as it dries. Think of it like a sponge. When a sponge absorbs water, it expands, when it dries it shrinks therefore becoming smaller. Once that soil dries out, concrete will likely settle causing cracks and uneven slabs.

Washout:

One common reason for cracked and/or sinking concrete is water. As water moves around concrete, it can create a path beneath the concrete causing the soil to wash away. Because of this, the concrete has nothing to support it, thus leaving the slab with nothing else to do except sink. Imagine you’re standing on a shoreline with water washing over your feet. As the water continuously hits your feet, you begin to sink. This, just like with concrete, is due to the fact water is washing away the only thing holding you up.

Compaction & Settling:

When weight is placed on soil, it causes soil to compact. This is commonly caused by the soil not being packed properly before the concrete is poured. Much like a ball, the more pressure added, the smaller the ball gets. Soil works the same way. With continual weight and pressure, the compaction of the soil can cause concrete to become unevenly supported leading to sinking.

If you are looking for a concrete repair company in Dante and the surrounding areas, look no further than Fortress Foundation Solutions!

Call us today at 1-434-473-7012 or contact us online for a free estimate!