How Does a Contractor Fix Cracks
in a Concrete Slab Foundation?
When you see cracks in your concrete slab foundation, it’s natural to wonder how they got there and how to fix them. Thankfully, contractors have a few tricks up their sleeves when it comes to repairing concrete slabs. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the most common methods used to repair slab cracks and what you can expect from each one. So if your home is built on a concrete slab foundation, be sure to read on for some valuable information!
Inspect the Crack
The first step in repairing a crack in a concrete slab foundation is to inspect the crack and determine the cause. In some cases, cracks may be caused by normal settling of the foundation. As concrete cures, it shrinks slightly, which can lead to cracks forming as the slab settles. Other times, cracks may be caused by external forces, such as tree roots or shifting soil. Once the cause of the crack has been determined, the appropriate repair method can be chosen. For example, if the foundation has shifted, stabilizing the soil may be enough to prevent further cracking. If the cause of the crack is unknown or it appears to be growing, it is best to consult with a professional before attempting any repairs.
Clean the Crack
Once the cause of the crack has been determined, the next step is to clean the crack. This may involve chiseling out any loose concrete or debris from the crack. Once the crack is clean, it will be easier to fill and repair. In some cases, you may also need to pressure wash the area around the crack to remove any dirt or grime. Depending on the severity of the crack, you may also need to use a wire brush to remove any rust or corrosion. By taking the time to clean the crack properly, you can ensure that your repair will be long-lasting and effective.
Fill the Crack
After the crack has been cleaned, it will need to be filled. The best material to use for filling a concrete crack is epoxy resin. This type of resin is designed specifically for repairing cracks in concrete and will bond well to the existing concrete. Once the epoxy resin has been mixed, it can be injected into the crack using a caulk gun. The epoxy resin will need to be allowed to cure for several hours before it is completely dry. In the meantime, it is important to keep traffic off of the repaired area so that the epoxy has a chance to set properly. Once it has cured, the epoxy will provide a strong, durable repair that will help to prevent further damage to the concrete.
Sand the Crack
Once the epoxy resin has cured, the next step is to sand the crack. This will help to smooth out any rough edges and make the repair less noticeable. It’s important to use fine-grit sandpaper so that you don’t damage the surrounding area. Once the crack has been sanded, it can be painted over if desired. This will further camouflage the repair and help it blend in with the rest of the surface. Whether you choose to paint or not, sanding the crack is an important step in making it less visible.
Prevent Future Cracks
Once the concrete slab foundation crack has been repaired, it is important to take steps to prevent future cracks from forming. One way to do this is to have the foundation inspected regularly by a professional contractor. Additionally, any trees or shrubs that are located near the foundation should be trimmed back to prevent their roots from causing damage. Finally, any cracks that do form in the future should be repaired promptly to prevent them from becoming larger.
So, if you have a concrete slab foundation and it has cracks in it, don’t worry. Some contractors can fix that for you. All you need to do is call them and set up an appointment. They will come out and take a look at the damage, then they will give you a quote for the repair work. Repairing cracked slabs is something that should be done sooner rather than later, so don’t wait until the problem gets worse. Call us today! We would be happy to help.
Are You Looking for a Company to Build a Foundation for Your New Home?
Spaulding Concrete has been the SF Bay Area’s top foundation builders for over 30 years. We’re here to fix your home’s foundation, no matter what problem may exist. We have the specialized equipment, services, and professional experience that you need to make permanent improvements to your building’s foundation. To get you started on the right foot, we would be happy to give you a free quote for the repair of the foundation. When you reach out by phone or email we will have one of our foundation experts answer any questions you have and explain how we can restore integrity and structural stability to your home or company building permanently. Successful concrete projects require careful planning and thorough preparation. Spaulding Concrete reviews the site and designs to ensure that the concrete and base structure follows the criteria for the planned use and that the layout and finishes are suitable for the project. The qualified concrete experts at Spaulding Concrete will be on schedule, on budget, and meet or exceed standards by careful planning, professional execution, and strict quality control.
To schedule your free quote, contact us today! We are proud to serve Orinda, Lafayette, Moraga, Pleasant Hill, Concord, Martinez, Pittsburg, Antioch, Brentwood, and the surrounding areas.
