What Causes Concrete to Sink?

Uneven or sinking concrete is not only an eyesore, it can be dangerous, too. When the soil below a concrete slab is compromised for some reason, the heavy concrete on top of it will begin to crack, split, and sink. There are a few primary reasons that the soil beneath concrete may shift or change. They are:

The Soil Washes Out

To provide the proper support for the weight of the concrete, soil must stay in place underneath it. However, water from a variety of sources such as heavy rain or flooding, plumbing leaks, hoses, improper drainage, can wash away the soil and cause the concrete to slowly sink in over time.

The Soil Settles and/or Shrinks

Soil can shrink or expand with heat, cold, and moisture. Not all soil types are equal when it comes to the weight they can bear. It may take several years for soil to compress under too much weight. When it contracts, spaces are made between the soil and the concrete that cause cracking and sinking.

Poor Compaction of the Soil Base

Unfortunately, many times sinking concrete is the result of poor work by grading companies, builders, or those in charge of adequately compacting the soil.

Your driveway, sidewalk, or patio was made to last for many years. We understand your frustration and will work rapidly to identify the problem and make a permanent repair so that you do not experience a recurrence of sinking concrete. The good news is that the concrete can often be lifted rather than replaced. This is more affordable and causes less disruption around your home or business. At Advance Concrete Lifting and Leveling, we will resolve sinking or cracking concrete without having to replace the entire slab. We have years of experience with concrete leveling, lifting, raising, and repair.

If you are in the Atlanta metro area, call us today for a no obligation on-site inspection of your sinking concrete.