What is a Slab Foundation?
Concrete slab foundations are extremely common in homes here in North Texas. They start with a vapor barrier, a network of reinforcing rebar or post tension cable, plumbing components, and the concrete itself. When properly constructed, slab foundations are extremely durable and dependable. However, they sometimes develop problems that require the services of a qualified contractor.
If you’re worried about your concrete slab foundation, then we invite you to contact us here at Align Foundation Repair today. We’ll diagnose the problem and give you the facts you need to make an informed decision.
Components of a Slab Foundation
Building a slab foundation typically involves a multilayered method that includes the following steps:
- Placing protective waterproof fabric over the excavated area – this is done to protect the slab from problems caused by underground moisture. This same material also helps to prevent termite damage to the completed building.
- Constructing a network of post tension cable and reinforcing rebar- this is done to stabilize the foundation and to prevent cracks and other structural problems.
- Laying the plumbing pipes – the water and sanitation lines enter the home through the foundation.
- Pouring the slab itself – this is usually done all at once during a single long day. The wet concrete may be held in place by excavated trenches, wooden forms, or a combination of the two.
- Controlling the moisture content of the concrete while it cures – this is achieved either by using an intermittent sprinkler or by having a worker on hand with an ordinary garden hose.
Additional steps may be required to match local building codes or to conform to the homeowner’s requirements. For example, sometimes a layer of rigid insulation is added to prevent frost upheaval (rare but not unheard of here in North Texas) or to improve the structure’s energy efficiency.
Problems That Can Occur With a Slab Foundation
Sometimes a slab foundation lasts for many decades without the slightest sign of trouble. Other times, however, problems can crop up due to one or more of the following causes:
- Inadequate preparation of the underlying soil – for a slab foundation to remain stable, the earth underneath it must be properly compacted. Sometimes this step is skipped in the rush to complete the building quickly.
- Insufficient protection from ground moisture – caused by gaps or tears in the waterproof fabric.
- Failure in the supporting layer of post tension cable and rebar – caused by hasty construction or the use of inferior materials.
- Cracks or structural failure – caused by the weight of the overlying structure, changes to the earth beneath the foundation, or weather-related damage.
Fixing problems with a concrete slab foundation requires the help of a skilled contractor with the necessary equipment, training, and experience. That’s where Align Foundation Repair comes into the picture.
We provide a wide range of concrete slab foundation repair services across North Texas. We also offer a variety of financing options. Check our DFW service areas and contact us today for your free, no-obligation estimate.
