Here in Texas, concrete slab foundations are extremely common for homes. Along with the concrete itself, they start with a vapor barrier, a network of reinforcing rebar or post tension cable, as well as plumbing components. There are issues that can arise and cause the need for repairs. Today, we at Dallas Foundation Repair would like to discuss the basics of a slab foundation and a few common problems.
How is a Concrete Slab Foundation Constructed?
Typically, building a slab foundation involves a multilayered method that includes the following steps below.
1) Over the excavated area, a protective waterproof fabric is placed. This step is designed to protect the slab from problems caused by underground moisture. Additionally, it helps to prevent termite damage to the completed building with the same material.
2) A network of post tension cable and reinforcing rebar is constructed. In addition to preventing cracks and other structural problems, this is done to stabilize the foundation.
3) Plumbing pipes are laid out. Through the foundation, the water and sanitation lines enter the home.
4) The slab itself is poured. Usually, during a single long day is when this is done. By excavated trenches, wooden forms, or a combination of the two is how the wet concrete may be held in place.
5) While it cures, the moisture content of the concrete is controlled. By having a worker on hand with an ordinary garden hose or using an intermittent sprinkler is how it is achieved.
To conform to the homeowner’s requirements or matching local building codes may be required with additional steps. To prevent frost upheaval, though are but not unheard of here Texas, or to improve the structure’s energy efficiency, sometimes a layer of rigid insulation is added for example.
What are the Problems with a Slab Foundation?
Without the slightest sign of trouble, sometimes a slab foundation lasts for many decades. On the other hand, however, problems can crop up due to one or more of the following causes listed below.
1) The underlying soil was inadequately prepped. The earth underneath it must be properly compacted for a slab foundation to remain stable. Occasionally, in an effort to complete the building quickly, sometimes this step is skipped.
2) From ground moisture, there was insufficient protection. More often than not gaps or tears in the waterproof fabric causes this.
3) The supporting layer of post tension cable and rebar experiences failure. The use of inferior materials or hasty construction is the source of this problem.
4) Structural failure or cracks. Changes to the earth beneath the foundation, weather-related damage, or the weight of the overlying structure can lead to the cracks or structural failure.
Slab Foundation Repair in Lewisville, Flower Mound, Carrollton, Plano, Richardson, Grapevine, Garland, Mesquite, Grand Prairie, Arlington & Great Dallas, Texas
The help of a skilled contractor with the necessary equipment, training, and experience are required to fix problems with a concrete slab foundation. If you are experiencing foundation issues in Dallas, Texas and surrounding areas, call in the professionals of Dallas Foundation Repair and let us take care of the issue.
