What Causes Concrete to Shift or Crack?

Concrete is a staple in construction, found in driveways, sidewalks, patios and foundations. While it is a durable material, it is not immune to damage. Several factors can cause concrete to shift, crack or buckle, leading to unsightly appearances and potential safety hazards. At Advance Concrete Lifting and Leveling in Alpharetta, GA, we understand the complexities of concrete leveling and repair and offer sustainable solutions to restore your surfaces to optimal condition.

Let’s explore the common causes of concrete damage and how our advanced techniques can help you.

Thermal Expansion and Contraction

One of concrete’s natural characteristics is its response to temperature changes. As temperatures rise, concrete expands; when they drop, it contracts. In regions like North Georgia, where hot days are often followed by cool nights, these rapid fluctuations create stress within the concrete. Over time, this stress can lead to surface cracking or even extensive structural damage if not addressed.

Proper installation techniques, including the use of control joints, are essential to minimize the impact of thermal expansion and contraction. These joints allow for movement and can help minimize the risk of cracking. However, if cracks do occur, our expert team at Advance Concrete Lifting and Leveling has solutions to restore the integrity of your concrete surfaces efficiently.

Soil Movement

Another significant cause of concrete damage is soil movement beneath the slab. Due to changes in moisture levels, the ground beneath your concrete can settle, shift or expand and contract. For instance, heavy rainfall can saturate the soil, causing it to swell, while drought conditions can lead to shrinking. This shifting can create voids under the concrete, resulting in sinking and uneven surfaces.

Understanding the soil conditions in your area is crucial to preventing concrete issues. At Advance Concrete Lifting and Leveling, we utilize advanced techniques that assess soil stability and provide tailored solutions. Our expertise helps ensure that your concrete remains stable and level over the long term.

Excessive Loads

Concrete is engineered to withstand specific loads, whether it’s the weight of vehicles on a driveway or the structure of a building. However, exceeding these load limits can place undue stress on the concrete, resulting in cracking or even complete failure. Common scenarios include using your driveway for heavy construction equipment or parking multiple vehicles in a confined space.

Adhere to weight limits and reinforce concrete structures where necessary to prevent damage from excessive loads. If you suspect your concrete has been compromised due to heavy loads, we can assess the damage and recommend appropriate repairs to restore strength and stability.

Poor Drainage

Water is a double-edged sword when it comes to concrete. While it is needed for the curing process, poor drainage can cause significant issues over time. If water cannot drain away from your concrete surfaces, it can seep into the material. Once inside, it can freeze, expand and lead to cracking during colder months. Additionally, standing water can erode the soil beneath the slab, creating voids and leading to further sinking.

To combat poor drainage, it is vital to ensure proper grading and drainage solutions around your property. Installation of French drains or channel drains can effectively redirect water away from concrete surfaces, preserving their integrity. If your concrete is already showing signs of damage due to water exposure, our team can provide expert repairs to restore it to optimal condition.

The Importance of Concrete Leveling Services

When concrete has cracked, shifted or sunk, timely intervention is critical. At Advance Concrete Lifting and Leveling, we utilize cutting-edge polymer injection techniques. Unlike traditional mud jacking methods, this innovative approach ensures a lightweight and durable seal beneath the concrete surface, preventing future sinking while minimizing damage to the slab. Our polymer injection not only stabilizes your concrete but also enhances its longevity.

Our team of experienced technicians is dedicated to providing high-quality workmanship and reliable solutions. With awards recognizing us as the best in concrete repair in Alpharetta, GA, our reputation speaks for itself. We pride ourselves on our commitment to customer satisfaction and our ability to deliver long-lasting repairs that stand the test of time.

Alpharetta GA Concrete Leveling Contractors

Concrete may seem like a robust and maintenance-free solution, but various factors can lead to damage over time. Understanding the causes of cracking and shifting is crucial in preventing significant issues. If you notice signs of concrete damage, do not hesitate to contact Advance Concrete Lifting and Leveling. Our team is poised to help you restore your concrete surfaces effectively and sustainably, ensuring peace of mind for years to come.