How Long Do Slab Foundations Last?

There is no question that the slab foundations have benefits and disadvantages. Even though they may be damaged, they are very common , particularly in warm climates. Land owners in some areas of the county where they freeze for months on end typically opt for a different kind of base. That’s because concrete slabs would break if they were continuously exposed to temperatures below 0 (and certainly as low as-15 or-30 degrees).

Geography and environmental conditions determine the form of base that is ideally suited to you. Due to weather conditions in the region, they often have problems that need solutions. It is interesting to learn why slab foundation service is always required. Often it’s attributable to land moving. Foundation movement will break the slabs and damage the foundation. Luckily, a lot of problems are quickly remedied.

The slab foundation is commonly referred to as the “slab on grade” foundation. Constructed of concrete, they became common in the 1950s. They are still commonly designed in the 21st century.

What is a Slab Foundation?

The slab foundation is a large , thick slab of concrete that is usually 4″-6 “thick in the center and poured directly onto the ground at one time. The edges of the slab are thicker (as wide as 24) “to allow extra strength around the perimeter. Many foundations use post-tension cables, while others are strengthened with steel rods (rebar). These materials are used to make the slab highly durable and capable of bearing the load bearing weight of the house or other structure. The concrete slab is usually placed on a sand layer in order to enhance drainage conditions and to serve as a cushion.

A concrete slab does not have a crawl area beneath it. In this respect, this type of foundation varies from house foundations with basements: there is no room under the floor. Basements are usually located in the North, if it’s getting really cold.

A concrete slab foundation is most generally installed on a property that, as it should be, has been graded. It is very important that the soil is graded because, if it is not, the foundation might sink or settle due to poor soil compaction.

How long do slab foundations last?

A poured concrete slab foundation with a block base can last 100 years or more, more than a lifetime, if properly designed. Slab foundation termite testing will last 12 years as long as the chemical barriers remain intact. Quarterly pest control and annual termite inspection will help you remain on top of this potential problem.

Can slab foundation be fixed?

The contractors who pour and restore slab foundations are asked every day, “Can the slab foundation be repaired? “And the answer is, and there is a” but “to accompany the answer. In most cases, indeed, a foundation slab can be fixed, but it is costly. The more severe the injury, the higher the cost.

Then you need to be prepared for potential collateral damages. Meaning, slab foundation repair can cause ceilings, doors, floors , walls, even windows to break and crack. You need to review what is in the contract that you sign with the company that fixes your slab base, as some will provide credit for a few fixes, but most do not.

Is a crack in a slab foundation bad?

It’s hard not to find a slab base with a few cracks. Concrete is not a resilient surface, so you’re forced to anticipate some stress cracks as the ground changes. However, if it is a plumbing induced crack, it may be bad news and it needs to be handled immediately by a licensed plumber. While they are trying to do plumbing repairs, they will have to call in a third party contractor to repair the slab. These are the things you need to review with the plumber when you get a quote.

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.