Here in the state of Texas, slab foundations are the most common form of foundation chosen when building a home. The reason for this is that these foundations are about as durable and long lasting as they come. If they are constructed right, they should last for however long your house is standing. However, if they aren’t constructed right or aren’t maintained properly, they can run into problems. Dallas Foundation Repair is here to talk about what a slab foundation is made of and what some of the problems they can generally have.
How to Build a Concrete Slab Foundation for a House
Like mentioned above, if your slab foundation is constructed correctly, you can count on it standing the tests of time. Here is what goes into the construction of a slab foundation.
– Waterproof Protector: The first step after the area is excavated is to lay down a waterproof barrier that will help keep moisture away from the foundation in the future. This waterproof fabric can also help homeowners avoid problems with termite damage as well.
– Tension Cables & Rebar: The next thing that will happen is post tension cables and reinforcing rebar is going to be set. This will help the slab be structurally sound. It can help to prevent cracking as well as other problems down the road.
– Plumbing: Next, the plumbing pipes will be laid for the home. These water and sanitation lines come up and enter the home through the foundation.
– Pouring Concrete: The entire slab of concrete is usually poured in one day. To keep the slab foundation in its form, there will be wooden forms used or excavated trenches. Some contractors will even decide to use a combination of these two methods to make sure the slab is poured perfectly.
– Controlling Moisture: During the curing process, the amount of moisture that comes in contact with the slab must be controlled. This can be done with a sprinkler that is controlled by the contractor or the use of a hose. Maintaining just the right moisture is key to a sound slab foundation.
What Can Go Wrong with a Slab Foundation?
As durable and reliable as a slab foundation is, there are still some problems that can arise. If the earth hasn’t been prepared properly, there can be shifting that causes problems. There will also be problems if there are any tears in the waterproof fabric and moisture makes contact with the slab. Also, when the post tension cables and reinforcing rebar are put in without ensuring it is done properly, you can run into problems as well.
Slab Foundation Repair in Lewisville, Flower Mound, Carrollton, Plano, Richardson, Grapevine, Garland, Mesquite, Grand Prairie, Arlington & Greater Dallas, Texas
If you have a slab foundation and have noticed that there are problems with it, you can count on the experts at Dallas Foundation Repair to solve them. We will diagnose the problem and get to work in solving it, so your home is structurally sound once again. Call us today!
