FIXING A VOID UNDER A CONCRETE SLAB
When a void forms beneath a concrete slab, the consequences might be severe. It can also weaken a foundation, producing fissures in the concrete. Underneath driveways, sidewalks, pool decks, and other slabs, these gaps can emerge. Professionals understand how to fill holes beneath concrete slabs and restore the structural integrity of your foundation.
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF VOIDS UNDER CONCRETE SLABS?
Erosion and other soil issues generate voids beneath concrete slabs. Some of the most prevalent reasons for voids under concrete are as follows:
Short downspouts and blocked gutters: can generate considerable water buildup near the slab, resulting in soil erosion. Fixing these issues might help keep excess water away from the slab.
Soil Settlement: If the earth is not compacted prior to Foundation Repair Playa Vista, settling soil can form voids under the concrete. When heavier objects are placed on top of the soil, it tends to compress unevenly. If left untreated, it can cause the foundation to become uneven, which can lead to severe damage.
Erosion: One of the most prevalent causes of voids is soil erosion. Erosion happens when water washes away the soil and rocks around the foundation, causing excess water to accumulate around a slab. Leaky plumbing and drainage issues are two of the most typical causes of erosion under concrete.
Insects and animals: that burrow can contribute to the production of gaps in the soil beneath a slab or foundation. It might take months for substantial harm to occur.
Hydrostatic Pressure: When water gathers beneath a slab and does not drain away, hydrostatic pressure builds up. Because of the tremendous pressure buildup, the slab level may become uneven and cracks may form later.
Drought: During a drought, dry earth shrinks, creating spaces beneath. If your location is having a drought, contact specialists to evaluate your home’s foundation and obtain assistance with repairing erosion under a concrete slab.
Poor Maintenance Methods: Poor maintenance practices, such as deferring slab repair until later, might exacerbate the situation. They can also aid in the creation of voids.
Seasonal Temperatures: The freezing and thawing cycles of the soil beneath concrete slabs can contribute to soil erosion.
FIXING VOIDS UNDER CONCRETE SLABS
There are three main solutions to fix voids that form underneath foundations and slabs, which include the following:
Mudjacking
Mudjacking is a process that employs a cement slurry, commonly known as mud. You’re not using mud per, but rather a sand-cement combination to cover the vacuum beneath. It is a low-cost option, but it has downsides. To begin, the concrete must cure for two to three weeks. Furthermore, there is no assurance that the concrete slurry will cover all of the empty pockets, which may pose issues in the future. Finally, the hardened slurry might make it more difficult to repair any surrounding piping.
Foam Injection
Foam Injection: This is a novel way of repairing erosion beneath a concrete slab. It entails the use of polyurethane foam to fill the space beneath a home’s foundation. It’s a high-density foam that expands and fills the space, sealing any fractures and other flaws.
The procedures described above need extensive knowledge and expertise and are best left to specialists. Professionals understand how to fill gaps under concrete slabs and have the necessary tools and equipment.
REPAIR OF CONCRETE SLABS AND FOUNDATIONS BY EXPERTS
RLM Retrofit Foundation’s experienced professionals can evaluate which option is most suited to fill a void that has formed beneath your concrete slab or foundation. Our crew can repair your slab and prevent new cracks from occurring.
