How to Identify Concrete Slab Defects
You probably never never think about it, but your commercial concrete slab does an important job. Even minor defects can become major problems for the stability of your entire building. Preventing, recognizing, and treating common defects is vital to the physical structure of your organization.
What Does a Concrete Slab Do, Exactly?
A concrete slab is a flat foundation made of solid concrete. Placed on level ground, these are one of the most common building foundations. Concrete doesn’t generally doesn't need a lot of maintenance. This makes it a popular material for the hardest working part of your organization.
Common Problems with Concrete Slabs
1. Curling - When the moisture or temperature at the top and bottom of the slab varies too much, cement will curl. The top tends to dry or cool faster than the bottom, causing it to shrink. Curling is typically fixed during the construction process as the slab dries. However, if it isn’t caught and treated during the drying process, it can lead to extensive cracking later on.
2. Cracking - One of the most common problems with concrete slabs is their tendency to crack. Cracking is usually caused by shrinking due to cold, drying, and applied loads (the weight of your infrastructure). The cracks caused by settling over time are what give business owners the most trouble. They’re most often found near other foundation materials, like reinforcing steel.
3. Surface Scaling - Surface scaling happens during the first year or so after placement. When the concrete curls, it will degrade to a depth of 1.5mm to 5mm. Concrete with poor surface strength is most susceptible to scaling. Unfortunately, no one knows who is at fault when scaling happens. So getting insurance to pay for repairs can be tricky.
4. Blisters - Blisters form when bubbles of air get stuck underneath sealed concrete. They’re usually found when the concrete is laid. A few alterations to the concrete mix itself prevents more blisters from occurring. While common, blisters are more of an annoyance than an actual structural problem. Your build crew should fix them as soon as they’re noticed.
Don’t Wait to Address Issues with Your Concrete Slab
It isn’t always easy to identify concrete slab defects. Most business owners will notice things like sloping floors and cracks around door frames. If you do find an issue, it’s vital to deal with it as soon as possible. Small problems can become huge, fast! Hiring a professional to repair your concrete will save you time, stress, and money.
Contact Exposed Design Today
With almost ten years of experience, Exposed Design Group gets the job done right - every time. From repairs to full slab replacements, our team of concrete experts is the solution to your building’s problems. If you think your concrete slab needs some work, don’t suffer the damages of waiting - contact Exposed Design Group today!