It depends. Superior Foundation Repair rarely repairs patios, but we do repair additions if they were poured as a slab-on-grade or an engineered slab. Here's why:
1. Patios Are Often Non-Structural
Most patios are non-structural and built primarily for aesthetic or recreational purposes. They’re typically thin, minimally reinforced slabs of concrete that are separate from a home’s main foundation. Because of this, they are more prone to cracking or settling due to Texas's expansive clay soils. However, since these issues are generally cosmetic and not structurally critical, we usually recommend that you contact a concrete pouring company for such repairs. According to the Concrete Network, issues like surface cracks or slight settling are common in patios, but they rarely impact the home's structural integrity.
2. Additions on Slab-On-Grade or Engineered Slabs Are Repairable
When it comes to home additions, we do repair them if they were built on a slab-on-grade or engineered slab foundation. A slab-on-grade is a single, thick slab of concrete that sits directly on the soil, providing a sturdy foundation for the structure. An engineered slab, on the other hand, is typically designed with reinforcements such as piers or beams and is specifically built to withstand movement in expansive soils, making it more stable. According to the Foundation Repair Association, slab-on-grade and engineered slabs are repairable with methods such as piering or underpinning, which help to stabilize and lift the foundation as needed.
3. When Repairing Patios Isn’t Feasible
Patios are often built separately from the main foundation, which means they do not affect the structural integrity of your home. In these cases, repairing a patio might not always be practical or necessary. If the damage is purely cosmetic, such as surface-level cracking, it’s better to contact a concrete pouring company that specializes in aesthetic repairs rather than structural repairs. This will ensure the work is cost-effective and appropriate for the nature of the damage.
4. Understanding When Foundation Repair Is Needed
For additions that are built on slab-on-grade or engineered slabs, foundation repair is often warranted when signs of settling or cracking become apparent. These issues can result from soil expansion and contraction, especially in Central Texas, where the expansive clay soils can create significant movement. Superior Foundation Repair specializes in stabilizing these types of foundations, whether through the use of piers, underpinning, or other structural reinforcement methods.
While patios generally don’t require structural repairs and are best handled by a concrete pouring company, we do repair additions if they were built on a slab-on-grade or engineered slab. If you’re unsure whether your patio or addition needs structural attention, reach out for a consultation.
For a free estimate, contact Superior Foundation Repair at (512) 900-4765 or email service@sfraustin.com. We’ll help you determine the best course of action for your patio or home addition foundation concerns.
