Slabs settling against another concrete structure such as a foundation wall can create slab binding. This sometimes happens in garages, basements and even some exterior slabs.
As a slab settles on one side it actually moves toward that side slightly. The further it settles the more it moves in the direction of the settling.
When a lift is attempted not only are we fighting the weight of the concrete but the drag on the foundation wall as well as trying to push the slab laterally back into position. Most of the time the slab slides up the wall just fine, occasionally though, the slab binds so forcefully that slab cracking occurs and the attempt has to be abandoned. Replacement then becomes the only option.
Slabs that have a tin plate or other material between the floor and the wall are much less apt to bind and thus less prone to cracking.
Slabs such as walks that are not against a wall can be cut apart with a concrete saw where settled so binding cannot occur during the lift.
One of the instruments we often use is a simple dial gauge, not only do they measure movement, but no movement when movement is expected can help us diagnose slab binding and prevent slab fractures.
When you have settled concrete call the concrete raising and leveling professionals today,
1-855-752-2522
www.SlabjackGeotechnical.com
Superior technology, Superior polymers, Superior results.
