If you have an uneven concrete slab in your home, or your driveway is beginning to sink, it might seem like a relatively easy fix. There are ways that you can cosmetically “fix” the problem with a little time, energy, and money. However, these fixes are just a cosmetic “Band-Aid” that push the need for a real repair down the road. If you have noticed uneven concrete floors in and around your house it is smart to get them fixed right as soon as possible and in the right way.
Repairing Cracked and Worn Concrete Floors
Over time, concrete floors will naturally crack and deteriorate. Through maintenance and proper care, however, the same concrete can last for your lifetime. If you see an area of broken concrete, concrete leveling is not your best option. For an area of concrete that is old and broken, the only suitable option is to tear out the concrete and replace it.
This includes driveways, sidewalks, and even highways. It’s easy to think you can patch and/or cover this faulty concrete with a thin layer of cement or epoxy. However, this kind of repair is not effective because it won’t last. Removing the broken area of concrete to replace it will not only improve the look of your floor, an expert will be able to examine it for any threats to your foundation.
Fixing Uneven Concrete Floors
Sometimes driveways and/or sidewalks can become uneven and hazardous. The concrete can buckle and crack from the shifting earth underneath them. If the concrete and ground beneath it are in really bad shape, it may be worth it to have a whole foundation inspection. Repairing uneven concrete correctly is not a do-it-yourself project. This project requires experienced technicians and heavy equipment. However, it may sound expensive, but having the repair done right will save you big in the long run.
The first thing to do is to get an accurate inspection from a reputable contractor. Two main options from most contractors are concrete leveling or poly-jacking. Since they each have pros and cons, it is important to know what the problem is and what kind of solution will fix your problem. Concrete leveling is sometimes more affordable, uses larger injection holes, but does a more thorough job of filling any holes or gaps under your slab. Concrete leveling also produces a solid base. On the other hand, the poly jacking holes are sealed when the pumping is complete and you can use the floor immediately after the project is finished. Your contractor will know which method is best for this type of fix.
Your Foundation Could Be At Risk
Problems in your home such as cracks in your drywall, sloped and unlevel concrete, cracks in your slab, and/or sticking doors and windows can show deeper foundational problems. If ignored, earth movement and hydrostatic pressure could lead to structural problems in your home that could lead to severe damages. This settling and shifting will not self correct. The longer you avoid signs of foundational problems, the more dangerous your home becomes.
If you own a home in Nashville, Murfreesboro, or anywhere in Middle Tennessee and notice these signs of your floor shifting, call Ground up Foundation Repair. Remember, the longer these problems go untreated the worse these issues could become. Contact us now for a foundation inspection.