Concrete Slab Formwork Engineering Solutions at Alumlight

Alumlight knows that the slab must be constructed properly to prevent a number of concrete slab repair problems. Most important is the compacting and preparation of the soil that will rest directly underneath the slab. If the soil has not been compacted then it will settle over time and leave a gap between the top of the soil and the bottom of the slab. If the gap is too large and the forces too great then the slab can crack and sink the reason most concrete slab formwork experience failure is the movement of the soil underneath. Expansive soils is to swell when they absorb water, and shrink when they lose water, are the number one enemy of concrete slabs.

And expansive soils with high clay content are the worst and often lead to expensive concrete slab repair. In addition, repairs may not be limited to the foundation but may include roof damage, brickwork damage, tile floor damage, plumbing damage, and other structural damages. There are a number of warning signs that can indicate the need for concrete slab formwork. It is far better to address these warning signs early because the damage to the home or structure can get progressively worse. These signs will include cracks in the sheetrock, cracked tiles on the floor, windows that do not open or close properly, and doors that do not open or close properly in the interior of the structure. 

Other warning signs will be found on the exterior of the structure and can include cracks in the brick, cracks near the corners of windows and doors, separation of trim from its attached area, and obvious cracks in the concrete slab. Also, if the structure has a dip in the roofline then that is a serious warning sign of foundation or structural problems. There is virtually no home or building insurance available for progressive damage experienced by concrete slab formwork. The insurance companies are well aware of the problematic nature of concrete slabs and the cost of concrete slab repair. They know that expansive soils will move up and down as well as side to side. This movement is stronger than the standard reinforced concrete slab built for the last seventy years. They simply have chosen to exclude from insurance coverage almost all foundation damage of a home or building because the concrete slab foundation was not built to withstand the forces of nature.

Concrete Slab Repair should be undertaken only after a determination has been made as to the cause. The worst thing a repair company can do is to make a repair that fails at a later date. The concrete slab, also called slab-on-grade, should be carefully examined to establish the cause. Only then can a repair company make a qualified suggestion for repair and stabilization. Concrete is a mixture of cement, water, sand, and small stones or gravel. When all of the dry ingredients are mixed with water a chemical reaction occurs and the mixture begins to harden. So, if you are looking for concrete slab formwork then contact Alumlight.