While we’d like to claim that every concrete lifting job goes off without a hitch, that’s not always the case. Sometimes, the concrete or the surrounding area can suffer damage during the project. These issues can arise in various ways, but the good news is that most can be anticipated and addressed ahead of time.
How to Minimize Damage Risk During a Concrete Lifting Project
The most crucial step in any construction project is to find a qualified and trustworthy contractor. A reputable concrete leveling contractor will openly discuss potential risks and outcomes associated with lifting projects. Some, like Jackcrete, offer free inspections, and it’s a good idea to seek multiple opinions to fully understand what to expect.
Concrete leveling crews can also take measures to minimize potential damage. They can remove carpets and clear rooms, enabling them to identify the best entry points and reduce the chances of causing cracks.
What Can Cause Concrete to Crack
Composition
Sometimes, contractors use the wrong concrete mix, leading to issues like spalling, discoloration, or even structural failure. Surprisingly, the concrete may appear flawless but be brittle, making it more prone to cracking during routine work. While this is rare (only occurring in 2% of projects), it can be challenging to detect and often results in extensive cracking during the work.
Relief Joints
Large concrete slabs that lack relief joints are at high risk of cracking. Smaller slabs can be lifted without problems and are less affected by relief joints. However, slabs larger than 10’x10″ should have relief joints to prevent cracking. Heavy-duty concrete with significant reinforcement for commercial or industrial use tends to be less affected by size and won’t crack when polyurethane foam is applied correctly.
Sticking/Pinning
In some cases, especially with porches, a sinking slab may shift slightly under the front door support. When polyurethane is injected, it can force the slab upward while the top slab pins it in place. Unless the contractor identifies this issue and stops the work, it often leads to slab breakage. A keen inspector can detect pinning, even though it’s challenging to spot, and won’t provide a lifting quote in such cases.
By following these precautions and working with a reputable contractor, you can minimize the risks of damage during a concrete lifting project.
This article was written by a professional at Nav Construction. At NAV Construction, there’s pride in everything we do. We focus on the details; those little things that make your project distinctive and, frankly, YOURS. Our customers continue to come with the confidence that the job will be done right the very first time. While we specialize in residential installation, we also have a number of commercial clients that keep us just as busy. Contact us now to learn more about NAV Construction, the best Concrete Contractors in Falls Church, VA!
