Landmark Lifting
When to Lift Concrete
Landmark Lifting
Knowing when to lift concrete isn’t that difficult; there’s no telling when or if concrete will shift and it may never move, but if it does it’ll need to be lifted. The most important rule about concrete is that it’s only as good as the material underneath it.
KNOWING WHEN TO LIFT CONCRETE AND THE COMMON CAUSES OF CONCRETE DAMAGE.
Concrete is a strong, durable material, but it relies heavily on the stability of the ground beneath it. Over time, shifting or settling soil can cause concrete to crack, sink, or become uneven. Recognizing when it’s time to lift concrete is crucial in preventing further damage and maintaining safety. There are a variety of factors that can cause concrete to become unstable. Understanding these issues helps homeowners and business owners make informed decisions about when to take action.
Concrete damage doesn’t always happen overnight. It can take years for the subtle effects of settling or water damage to become noticeable. However, recognizing the signs early on can help prevent more extensive damage later. Among the most common causes of concrete shifting are house settling and water damage. Understanding these causes is essential for knowing when to lift concrete, and knowing when to act will help you avoid unnecessary repair costs.
House Settling
When new homes are being built, there are a number of underground excavations, especially for laying pipes. When an excavator is backfilling the water and sewer trenches around the foundation, it is important that he uses the right amount of water and compaction, bringing it up in lifts so that it is tight going back into the trench. This will prevent it from settling into voids in the future. A house will typically settle for about the first 10 years, beyond that, settling problems will be few and far between.
Water Damage
If water saturates the ground beneath a concrete slab, the dirt will lose its tension and start to wash away. Unfortunately, this is usually invisible from the surface, because it’s almost always caused by one of the previously mentioned pipes breaking, under a concrete slab. Slabs that are settling or sinking into the ground need to be lifted back into their original position before they become trip hazards and cause injuries, or start to crack and break apart.
Common Signs That Concrete Needs to Be Lifted
Knowing when to lift concrete requires an understanding of the common signs of concrete damage. Some early indicators include:
- Uneven concrete surfaces: If certain areas of your concrete appear to be sinking or tilting, it’s a clear sign that the foundation underneath is unstable.
- Cracks in the surface: Cracks that develop in concrete slabs, walls, or foundations are often caused by shifting or settling. If you notice cracks, it’s time to investigate further.
- Pooling water: Water that collects in certain areas, particularly where it didn’t collect before, can be a result of the concrete becoming uneven and causing drainage issues.
- Gaps between concrete slabs: If gaps form between concrete slabs or between slabs and walls, it’s likely that the concrete has shifted or sunk beneath the surface.
- Doors or windows sticking: Misalignment of doors or windows can occur when the foundation shifts. If doors and windows no longer open or close properly, it may indicate a problem with the concrete.
If you’re noticing any of these signs, don’t wait until the problem becomes more serious. Acting quickly to know if you should lift the concrete back into place can prevent further damage and protect your property.
Why Prompt Action Matters
Timely action is crucial when it comes to lifting concrete. If you delay repairs or fail to address early signs of damage, the situation can worsen over time. Not only can sinking or shifting concrete create unsightly cracks and uneven surfaces, but it can also lead to safety hazards.
For example, uneven concrete can cause trip and fall accidents, especially in high-traffic areas such as driveways, walkways, and patios. Cracks can also compromise the structural integrity of your foundation or slabs, leading to costly repairs if not addressed quickly. The longer you wait to lift concrete, the more difficult and expensive the repairs will likely become.
Why Choose Landmark Lifting
At Landmark Lifting, we know when to lift concrete slabs and how. We can quickly get your ground firmly back beneath your feet.
With years of experience in the concrete lifting industry, Landmark Lifting is committed to providing effective solutions for homeowners and business owners facing concrete issues. Whether the problem is caused by house settling, water damage, or another factor, our team has the expertise and equipment to restore your concrete surfaces to their proper position.
Contact Us Today
If you’re experiencing concrete issues, don’t wait until they become larger problems. Contact Landmark Lifting today to schedule an inspection. We will assess your concrete surfaces and determine the best course of action to lift the concrete and prevent further damage.
Get a quote
Tell us what needs lifting and we will get back to you with a price.