250-880-1049 chad@rigidconcrete.ca

RIGID CONCRETE

Raising & Repair

Our frequently asked questions and answers to your concrete concerns

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250-880-1049

We always like to hear from our customers, so we can improve on our already outstanding record of customer satisfaction. Here you will find, Rigid Concrete’s most frequently asked questions and answers about residential and commercial sunken sidewalks, cracked driveways, leaking basement walls and other unsightly and potentially dangerous concrete concerns.

Still can’t find the answer you’re looking for, then call us today, we can fix what cracks you up!

Our top ten frequently asked questions!

What size are the holes?

1” 5/8

How many holes are required for slabjacking?

This depends on how large of an area and how much the concrete has sunk. Check out our Slabjacking page for more information

My driveway is severely cracked, is that an issue?

The concern for slabjacking is when you have lots of cracks that resemble a spider’s web. The more cracks in the concrete, the harder it is to raise the slab evenly. It is usually better to save your money and invest in a new concrete slab.

How long does it take?

Average slabjacking jobs take 2-6 hours. Larger jobs may take longer but are generally completed in 1 day.

Do I need to be home?

No, we just need access to water source and power outlet.

My concrete has sunk, can you raise it?

Generally the answer is yes. Rigid Concrete Raising and Repair can raise driveways, sidewalks, steps, patios, pool decks, basement floors, garage floors and more. Rigid Concrete Raising and Repair will arrange an inspection to determine if slabjacking is possible and provide a free estimate.

My concrete slab sounds hollow, should I be concerned?

Yes, this a sign of a hollow cavity under your slab know as a void. Voids are generally caused by water erosion of the sub base (material under the slab). The common sources are open joints or cracks in the slab, gutters that channel the rainwater towards the slab and poor drainage. Eventually the slab will sink or crack becoming a larger issue. Check out our slabjacking page for more information

Acceptable payments?

We accepts cheques, bank e-transfers, Visa, Mastercard and Cash.

Why does concrete sink?

Concrete is heavy! When the soils underneath a concrete slab are unable to support its weight, the slab will sink. If part of the concrete slab is supported and other parts are not, the unsupported portions will crack away or sink resulting in an un-level surface.

Soils under outdoor concrete slabs fail for two primary reasons:

  • Soil Shrinkage, Compaction & Settling

Different types of soil have different load-bearing capacities. When a soil’s load-bearing capacity is exceeded, the soil will compact and settle. It’s also possible for the soil beneath a slab to settle and compact of its own accord. Soil that contains large amounts of clay and/or silt will shrink substantially in dry weather and expand during wet seasons. As the soil expands and contracts beneath your concrete slab, the slab will sink and heave – often cracking in one or more spots.

  • Washout Of Soils

The soil under your driveway, patio or concrete steps may not always stay in the one place it’s needed to
support your structure. As water moves through the ground under your concrete slabs, it can begin to wash away supporting
soils that prop up your concrete. As this soil washout continues, it creates voids and empty space under the slab. Over time, those voids grow and your concrete will begin to sink or cave in.

How can I prevent my slab from sinking ?

Make sure the soil is 100% compacted ( water soaking is the best compaction method). Also make sure
all ground is sloped away from your home, and gutter / downspouts are working properly. All concrete
joints and cracks need to be sealed to keep water from working under the slab.

INQUIRING MINDS WANT TO KNOW

Can you repair the cracks?

Yes, Rigid Concrete Raising and Repair can repair the cracks using a technique that makes them virtually disappear. Ask us for a free quote.

What about the control joints?

Using a similar process as the cracks we can seal them with an ecstatically pleasing look. This keeps any water from penetrating a slab.

How long does it take before I can use my concrete again?

Most areas can be walked on within a few minutes of the repair. Vehicles can be driven or parked 24 hours after the job is complete.

Does your work make a lot of dust or debris?

Drilling holes make a little dust, and if we have to cut your concrete, this can sometimes make a lot of dust, if water is not used. Water can be used to keep the dust down if this an issue for the customer. Please be sure to let Rigid Concrete Raising and Repair know if dust will be an issue for you.

Can you lower concrete slabs?

In most cases a slab is lifted due to a tree root pushing it up from below. Rigid Concrete Raising and Repair can not lower the slab but lift the surrounding slabs to level the offset and eliminate a trip/fall hazard. In other circumstances the slab will sink at one end resulting in the opposite end lifting above grade. Typically when we raise the lower end the high section will sink back to level .

How much will slabjacking save me opposed to replacing?

Most slabs can be raised for one third to half the cost of replacement, and without the inconvenience that accompanies replacement.

SHOW ME THE MONEY

Is there a warranty?

Yes, Rigid Concrete Raising and Repair carries a 2 year transferable guarantee.

What are the terms of payment?

Payment is due upon receipt.

Are you insured?

Yes, Rigid Concrete Raising and Repair is fully insured and WCB approved.