Common Slab Foundation Repair

There are so many reasons why your slab foundation might need repairs. In this article, we’ll talk about common problems homeowners have with their foundation and some ways to repair these problems.

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One common slab foundation problem is the disruption in the slab. This can create complications that consist of uneven floors and walls, and tilting countertops. The best solution for this problem is to have a contractor come take a look at your foundation to determine the cause.

Another problem is foundation cracks. They harm slabs made of concrete and may cause your foundation to separate at the joints. Obstacles commonly include gaps that are relatively small, although they can become larger if not fixed quickly. The one way to fix this is to install concrete piers.

Another common problem homeowners have is settling and sinking slabs.  These are both signals that your foundation is moving and damage is occurring. Common causes of shifting in your foundation can be soil and water. Ways to fix this problem is to install additional foundation piers. This has been an issue all through the 1900s and is still affecting houses built today.

Piers also could have shifted. Concrete or steel piers can both collapse over a period of time can create a dilemma. After all, it would be most unusual for them to last forever. You’ll want to make sure your foundation piers and slab are both secure. Robust foundations rarely fail for no good reason. They’ve improved in the past 30 years.

The last problem is poorly made foundationsPoorly made concrete foundations can cause slabs severe harm if the concrete was not poured thick enough. A thin concrete slab will not support a foundation because of the weight of the house. The best solution is to have your foundation inspected by an experienced contractor who can make your structure last. It’s important that it be made correctly.

More Info

If you are looking for a professional foundation repair company don’t look any further! Here at Foundations on the Level, we strongly believe in quality customer service and treat every home as if it was our own. Our specialists will work directly with you to analyze the unique problems that your home is facing and come up with the best solution for your needs and budget. We have established a fantastic reputation within Orange County & San Diego County for foundation repair, slab releveling, retaining walls, and more. Contact us for a free estimate!

Around the House in Carlsbad, CA


What are the most common problems we see in Carlsbad?

So many of the calls we receive from our Carlsbad customers start with something small. Something that people aren’t even sure is a true problem.

“I have a small crack in my ceiling, should I be worried?”

“I noticed my steps have separated from my foundation, is this a big problem?”

People generally are just around the house and they notice something that wasn’t there before. Then, like we all do, they go to Google and search:

Are you seeing a pattern here? I bet you are….cracks (among a few other things!) So how serious are these cracks and do they REALLY mean a problem is happening underneath your home?

Err on the side of caution ⚠️

Here is our recommendation to Southern California homeowners:

What does it hurt to get it checked out?

If you notice cracks, even if they are just hairline cracks, it’s worth having a foundation repair expert take a look. We live in an area, whether you are talking about Carlsbad or other parts of Southern California, that is prone to movement and changes in the ground around your home.

The cracks you are finding might just be from minor settlement but they truly can be a sign of something bigger. Especially if you are seeing more than one item on that list above. A few other items to keep your eyes on? Countertops pulling away from the wall, cracked tiles, cracked molding, or cracks in the joint where walls meet – these are all potential signs of problems.

We offer free estimates, and perform foundation repairs that can keep your home structurally sound. Call us – ask questions – and have us take a look. We’re here to help and proud to serve Carlsbad and Southern California. Thanks for reading!

Most Common Foundation Issues in Southern California

People in Southern California deal with a very specific set of foundation problems. Because most people have slab foundations, foundation repair and foundation raising in Southern California is different than in other states and other parts of the state. Learn what the common foundation issues are in Southern California as well as how to identify a foundation problem. Once you know you have a problem, you should call an expert at FOUNDATIONS ON THE LEVEL.

Common Foundation Issues and How to Repair Them

Bowing Walls & Wall Cracks

Wall cracks are among the most common foundation problems in Southern California

Look for bowing and buckling of walls. Walls that are bowing and leaning often have cracks as well. This issue is caused by unstable foundations and is typically repaired by pier installation. Sometimes helical tiebacks can be used to repair retaining walls and other walls in SoCal properties.

Foundation Settlement

foundation settlement often causes foundation cracks and other common foundation issues

If you see visible signs that your foundation is sinking or settling, it could indicate major foundation failure. Underpinning with steel push piers or helical piers can help lift and stabilize settled foundations in Southern California.

Floor Cracks & Uneven Floors

floor cracks are often caused by foundation issues

Cracks in the floor of a home or separating between walls and floors can mean that the foundation has settled unevenly. This also causes floors to slope. Sagging and bounciness in floors may accompany cracks. This problem usually requires underpinning with piers or polyurethane injection.

Ceiling Cracks

wall crack repair Southern California

Cracks in your ceiling can also indicate foundation failure. These cracks come in a variety of shapes – spiderweb cracks, angled cracks, and horizontal or vertical cracks. Larger cracks that extend down the wall or occur near doors and windows are usually more serious. Underpinning or slab lifting with polyurethane helps fix this issue.

Sticking Doors & Windows

sticking windows and doors Southern California

If your doors and windows are sticking closed or not closing properly, it may be the sign of movement in your foundation or even foundation failure. If you find this in conjunction with other issues, call an expert right away. Foundation repair and foundation raising can help fix the underlying issues causing this problem.

Foundation Cracks

foundation cracks Southern California

Here in California, we’re more prone to cracking and settling foundations due to our climate and soil conditions. Foundation settlement and upheaval, which is the opposite of settlement, are both very common in Southern California. Cracks can also lead to foundation leakage. Get these cracks fixed right away with underpinning or professional crack injection repair.

free inspections

We utilize foundation underpinning and polyurethane injection for slab leveling to fix all of these issues for SoCal homeowners. Contact FOUNDATIONS ON THE LEVEL for foundation repair solutions in Southern California.