Should I Be Worried About Cracks on My Concrete Floor?
While getting the car out of the garage, we may notice cracks in the concrete garage floors. It is one of the most common problems that a house owner handles. Generally, cracks on the concrete floor indicate that there is an underlying foundation problem behind that. But most of the time, house owners cannot understand whether the cracks are serious or if there is nothing to worry about. Most of the time, it does not indicate any serious structural issues. However, if you notice cracks in your floor, don’t go for the DIY approach. Contact a garage floor crack repair service provider to inspect the situation.
Cracks may occur on the concrete floor because of various reasons. The most common reasons are bad installation, shrinkage, underground water source and foundation settlement. Let’s explore in details.
Shrinkage
It is one of the most common reasons behind cracks occurring in the floor. These types of cracks do not indicate serious problems at all. Natural shrinkage may occur during the curing process. Remember that you may even notice cracks in the newly constructed concrete floor, and which is very normal.
Bad Installation
Many times cracks can occur in your concrete garage floor on account of bad installation. If you notice a lot of cracks, then there is a possibility that the expert poured a thin slab and did not include rebar reinforcement when needed. Cracks may happen in the concrete due to other reasons as well like insufficient gravel, uneven soil and too low MPA of concrete.
Don’t Confuse Cold Joints with Cracks
In most cases, house owners get confused between the cold joints and cracks. They think that cold joints are cracks on the concrete floor. The experts install a cold joint while pouring the concrete. It is the place where the experts pour a section of concrete. After hardening the material, they pour another section of concrete again.
A Few Ways to Understand If the Cracks are a Concern
When you notice cracks on the concrete slab, you should also look for other factors to understand whether these indicate more serious concerns. If you see some of the following factors are there, then contact an expert immediately.
Does the roof sag?
Are the floors of the house sloping?
Are there cracks in the drywall?
Is the foundation cracked?
Are there doors or windows difficult to open or shut?
It's Not “Just” a Crack Always!
Many house owners do not pay attention to cracks in the beginning. They think that a couple of cracks on the concrete do not pose any threat to the house. But the fact is that cracks can be a sign of an underlying major foundation problem. If you notice such cracks, then contact Zone Garage for garage floor crack repair.