Huntsville Concrete Leveling & Lifting Services

Effective Solutions for Sunken Foundations, Driveways, Sidewalks & More in Huntsville, AL

Concrete slabs that are uneven, sunken, and cracked are not only an eyesore, but they can also be a safety hazard. When a concrete slab is not level, it creates an uneven surface that can cause a person to trip and fall, which can lead to serious injuries. If you have a sunken concrete slab, you may also have drainage issues. Water will flow to the lowest point, so if you have a sunken slab, water may be flowing toward your home. This can cause water damage and flooding in your basement or crawl space.

At Ox Foundation Solutions, we provide professional concrete leveling and lifting services using the latest technology and products. Our team of experts is fully trained and certified to provide you with the best solution for your sunken or uneven concrete slab. We will inspect your slab and provide you with a free estimate for the cost of the job. We can also provide you with a detailed plan of action so you know what to expect during the process.

Request an inspection today when you call (205) 839-7950.

What Causes Concrete Slabs to Sink or Settle?

Concrete slabs can sink or settle for a variety of reasons, all related to the conditions of the soil beneath them and the manner in which they were constructed. Here are the primary causes of this issue:

• Soil Erosion. Water can erode the soil underneath concrete slabs, leading to voids and gaps. This often happens due to poor drainage, heavy rainfall, or plumbing leaks. When the supporting soil is washed away, the concrete has nothing to rest on, causing it to sink or settle.
• Poor Soil Compaction. When the soil beneath a concrete slab is not properly compacted during construction, it can compress over time under the weight of the slab and any load it supports. This insufficient compaction results in the settling of the concrete as the soil compresses.
• Soil Shrinkage. Certain types of soil, particularly clay-rich soils, can shrink significantly when they dry out. During dry seasons or droughts, these soils lose moisture and contract, leading to gaps and voids beneath the concrete slab. As the soil shrinks, the slab settles into the new gaps.
• Tree Roots. Tree roots can grow under and around concrete slabs, causing displacement as they expand. Over time, the roots can lift or push the slab, leading to uneven settling and sinking.
• Poor Construction Practices. Inadequate construction practices, such as using substandard materials, improper mixing of concrete, or failing to follow proper installation techniques, can contribute to the instability of the slab. Poor construction increases the likelihood of cracks and settling over time.
• Heavy Loads. Excessive weight on a concrete slab, such as from parked vehicles, heavy machinery, or even large furniture, can cause it to sink or settle if the underlying soil cannot support the added load. Over time, the constant pressure can compress the soil and lead to settlement.
• Groundwater Movement. Changes in groundwater levels can affect the soil's stability beneath concrete slabs. Rising groundwater can saturate the soil, reducing its load-bearing capacity, while falling groundwater can cause soil to dry out and shrink.
• Freeze-Thaw Cycles. In colder climates, the freeze-thaw cycle can cause soil to expand and contract. When water in the soil freezes, it expands and can lift the concrete slab. As the ice melts, the soil contracts, leading to settling. Repeated cycles can gradually destabilize the slab.

Signs of a Sinking or Settling Concrete Slab

If you have a concrete slab on your property, it is important to keep an eye out for signs of a sinking or settling slab. Some of the most common signs of a sunken or uneven concrete slab include:

• Uneven surface
• Cracks in the slab
• Water pooling around the slab
• Doors and windows that stick

Benefits of Concrete Leveling & Lifting

There are several benefits to having your concrete slab leveled and lifted. Some of the most common benefits of concrete leveling and lifting include:

• Improved Safety: If you have a sunken or uneven concrete slab, it can create a tripping hazard. By having your slab leveled and lifted, you can create a safe and even surface for walking and driving.
• Prevents Further Damage: If you have a sunken or uneven concrete slab, it can cause further damage to your home. By having your slab leveled and lifted, you can prevent further damage to your foundation and other structures on your property.
• Enhanced Appearance: If you have a sunken or uneven concrete slab, it can make your property look unattractive. By having your slab leveled and lifted, you can improve the appearance of your property.
• Increased Property Value: If you have a sunken or uneven concrete slab, it can decrease the value of your property. By having your slab leveled and lifted, you can increase the value of your property.