subject: Standing On Uneven Ground [print this page] Change is the only constant thing in the world. Everything that can be perceived by our senses can also be touched by change. Even the soil that we are standing on is not immune to its powers. Because we are constantly on the move, and because we apply varying amounts of load to the ground that we are stepping on, it is but natural that concrete slabs that can be found in your homes or on your driveway will, at one time, start to sink or show cracks and other damages.
Aside from the constant wear and tear that concrete slabs are subjected to, improper installation or poorly compacted soil are also some of the causes why concrete slabs tend to tilt, crack or sink. The most common solution to this problem is slab jacking or slab lifting.
Slab jacking or slab lifting is the process of raising a concrete slab to its original position by pumping fillers underneath it. Usually, a series of holes that are about two inches away from one another are drilled through the part of the slab that has sunk. A grout mixture made of water, Portland cement, fly ash and sand.
A relatively quick and easy process, slab lifting also provides a number of advantages. For one, it is low cost and costs less than a fraction of what it would have cost you to have the whole slab replaced. Since the grout is made from cement and sand, it is quite sturdy and can support the slab for a long period of time. Aside from this, slab jacking can also be done in any weather condition and with almost any type of soil.
With slab lifting, there is also no need for you to have the surrounding grass dug up. This means not only lesser work but fewer disturbances to the slabs surrounding area. Since the old slab would be used, you do not have to worry about people noticing the difference in the color. And if you are worried about having to close of the concerned area, slab lifting actually allows you to use the slab in a matter of minutes; whereas , replacing the whole slab would mean you have to wait for 48 hours before you can use the concerned area.
If you have noticed that your slab needs to be repaired, get in touch with a professional and have them assess the extent of damage in your concrete slab. Keep in mind that, although slab lifting may seem to be the most budget-friendly solution, not all damages can be repaired with this method.
