A garage is more than just a place to park your car; it adds value to your home, offers storage space, and provides a practical area for projects. However, like any part of your property, your garage floor is vulnerable to problems like cracks and settling. At Paving Hackensack, we specialize in pavement restoration and repairs, offering expert solutions to keep your garage safe and functional.
H2: Common Causes of Garage Floor Cracks and Settlement
When your garage floor shows signs of cracking or sagging, it’s often a symptom of an underlying issue. Here’s what might be causing these problems:
Ground Shifting and Voids
Cracks running down the center of a garage floor typically indicate that the soil beneath has shifted or eroded, leaving voids under the slab. This can happen due to natural soil settlement or water erosion. Granular soils, like sand or gravel, are more prone to settling and forming air pockets, leading to uneven ground support.
Water Erosion
Improper drainage can worsen erosion. Check where your gutters and downspouts discharge water; they should extend at least ten feet from the house to prevent water damage and soil erosion around your garage.
Natural Settlement
As buildings age, the weight of the structure compresses the underlying soil, which can lead to settlement. Over time, this natural process can cause your garage floor to sink or crack.
H2: Effective Solutions for Garage Floor Issues
Slab Jacking for Lifting and Leveling
When there’s a space beneath your garage floor causing it to sag, slab jacking is an effective way to lift and realign the slab. This process involves injecting polyurethane foam beneath the concrete. The foam expands and hardens, lifting the floor back to its original position. Once the slab is level, any visible cracks can be filled and sealed to prevent further damage.
When to Use Helical Piers
If your garage floor slopes outward or shows cracks along the walls, it may indicate a foundation issue. In cases where the garage floor acts as a base for the walls (integral to the foundation), helical piers are essential. These piers stabilize both the wall and the floor, preventing further settling. If the foundation is lifted with piers, slab jacking may be needed to fill any voids created during the lift, ensuring a stable and even surface.
Floating Slab Solutions
If your garage floor stops at the walls and is not part of the foundation (a “floating slab”), repairs often involve both piers and slab jacking. Helical piers stabilize the foundation, while slab jacking lifts and levels the floor once the foundation is secure.
H2: Important Considerations for Garage Repairs
Before proceeding with garage floor repairs, here are a few crucial points to keep in mind:
Evaluate the Type of Slab
Determine whether your garage floor spans the entire area as part of the foundation or terminates at the wall as a floating slab. This will influence the repair strategy and materials needed.
Professional Inspection
A comprehensive assessment by experienced professionals is essential to diagnose the issue accurately. Paving Hackensack’s team will evaluate your floor and recommend the most effective repair method tailored to your specific needs.
Choose Reputable Contractors
Garage foundation repairs can be complex, so it’s vital to hire a reputable, insured contractor. Verify their credentials, check for Better Business Bureau accreditation, and ensure they have a proven track record.
H2: Preventing Future Issues
Preventative measures can help protect your garage floor from future problems:
- Extend downspouts to direct water away from the foundation.
- Seal any existing cracks to prevent water infiltration.
- Schedule routine maintenance to catch early signs of wear and address them promptly.
Contact Paving Hackensack for Expert Solutions
If your garage floor shows signs of cracks, settling, or sinking, don’t wait until the problem worsens. At Paving Hackensack, our experienced project managers and skilled team offer comprehensive assessments and solutions tailored to your needs. From slab jacking to helical pier installation, we ensure your garage remains stable and secure.
Contact Paving Hackensack for a free estimate and let us help restore the safety and value of your garage.
