Concrete Movement

Concrete movement happens where concrete slabs are located. This is generally in the garage and basement, along with outside patio and driveways. Some homes have slabs in other locations depending on the homes design.

Concrete slabs are generally placed on the underlying soil and on compacted fill.

The cause of slab movement has to do with the soil:
• Poorly compacted soil
• Expanding clay soils

Concrete movement is expected and should not be confused with a foundation problem. That said slab movement often occurs during foundation movement. It can be determined if you have common slab movement or a foundation problem during the foundation inspection.

In newer homes (mid 80’s and newer) floating wall assemblies were installed on walls built on concrete slabs to absorb the concrete movement up to 1 ½”. During the foundation inspection our foundation expert or a structural engineer can determine if this procedure was implemented in your home and if it was properly installed.

If the floating wall system was not installed or was installed incorrectly the concrete movement can transfer up effecting upper floors and walls and doors. It is important to get this inspected to determine if you have a foundation issue. Contact us for a free foundation analysis and estimate.