Sinking concrete is actually very common. We’ve all walked on a cracked or uneven sidewalk at some point. When the soil underneath of the concrete slabs is no longer able to hold their weight, they start to sink. This causes the cracking and uneven-ness that we see. Here are some of the most common causes of concrete sinking.
Poorly Compacted Soil
When concrete is poured for driveways, sidewalks, patios, and other projects, there is often soil that is spread out to achieve the desired grade. After spreading out the soil, it should be compacted down until it is hard and strong. If concrete is poured directly on top of the un-compacted soil, it can cause the concrete to settle and crack because it isn’t being properly supported.
Soil Washing Away
Another thing that can cause concrete sinking is when the soil underneath washes away. Erosion, plumbing leaks, heavy rains, and other things can cause the soil to wash away from your concrete. If enough water seeps up under the concrete, it can cause the soil to move and wash away. The more soil that washes away, the more the concrete will sink because there just isn’t enough there to support it.
Fluctuating Moisture Levels
Simple changes in the amount of moisture in the soil can also cause the concrete to sink. If there is clay underneath and it gets wet, it will expand. On the other hand, if the soil gets exceptionally dry due to drought or extreme heat, it will shrink. When this happens, there’s nothing underneath the concrete to hold it up, so it just settles and cracks.
Atlantic Maintenance Group for All of Your Concrete Needs
If you are looking for help keeping your residential or commercial property free from soil erosion or other lawn diseases, Atlantic Maintenance Group is ready to help you with our variety of landscaping, asphalt, snow removal, and concrete maintenance services. We are experts in our field and we are prepared to meet your needs with a price and product that will leave you grinning. If you’re interested in getting a free quote or more information, visit us online or give us a call at (410) 768-4720. To see examples of our work and stay up to date on our specials, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Google+.