What slab problems look like
- Cracks in the brick veneer, often in a stair-step pattern
- Cracked or uneven tile floors
- Doors that stick or swing open or shut on their own
- Gaps around window frames and baseboards
- Cracks in the slab you can see in the garage
Common repair methods
Repair is usually about getting support under the slab that does not depend on the shifting clay near the surface. Contractors often use piers, such as pressed concrete pilings or steel piers, driven down to firmer soil. The house can then be lifted back toward level where that is possible. The right method depends on your home, the soil, and how much it has moved, so ask the contractor to explain why they recommend one over another.
Ask these questions before you hire
- What is causing the movement, and does the plan address it?
- What type of pier do you recommend, and how many?
- Is there a written warranty, and what does it cover?
- Will you need permits, and who pulls them?
- Are you licensed with the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors? (You can look up any contractor on the LSLBC website.)
Common Questions
Can a slab be leveled perfectly?
Not always. The goal is to stabilize the house and bring it back as close to level as the structure allows. Ask the contractor what result to expect before work starts.
Do I need to leave the house during repairs?
Most slab pier work happens outside around the edge of the house. Some jobs need access inside. The contractor can tell you what your job involves.