Why Does Concrete Sink?

If part of the concrete slab is supported by soils and other sections are not, the unsupported pieces may crack away from the other section and result in unlevel concrete.

AFS Foundation & Waterproofing Specialists can inspect the condition of your concrete slab during an on-site estimate. Call us today to schedule a free quote in Huntsville, Birmingham, Nashville, Chattanooga, Columbus, Biloxi and surrounding areas.

Soil washout can result in empty space beneath your concrete slab, unable to support it. This can lead to cracks and sinking over time.

Primary causes of sinking outdoor concrete

Soil Shrinkage, Compaction & Settling

Different types of soil have different load-bearing capacities. When a soil’s load-bearing capacity is exceeded, the soil will compact and settle.

It’s also possible for the soil beneath a slab to settle and compact of its own accord. Soil that contains large amounts of clay and/or silt will shrink substantially when it gets dry.

As the soil compacts underneath a concrete slab, the unsupported slab will sink as well, usually cracking in one or more spots.

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Washout Of Soils

The soil that is underneath your driveway, patio, or concrete steps may not necessarily remain there to provide adequate support for the concrete element.

As water moves underneath your concrete slabs, it can wash away the soil that’s supporting the weight of the concrete. As this happens, it creates a void, or empty space, underneath. Over time, with nothing to support it, your concrete slab can begin to sink or cave in.

Want a permanent solution? Learn more about our SettleStop Concrete Raising installation in Alabama, Tennessee, and Georgia

The good news is that you don’t have to live with sunken concrete anymore!

We would be happy to provide you a free evaluation and cost estimate in Huntsville, Birmingham, Nashville, Chattanooga, Columbus, Biloxi and Surrounding Areas.

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_{Disclaimer: “Concrete leveling” means the process by which cracked, uneven concrete is stabilized, and in many cases lifted, by means of PolyRenewal™ polyurethane foam. AFS does not guarantee that PolyRenewal™ can make your concrete perfectly level.}