Do You Actually Need a New Floor?
Not all signs of wear and tear on the basement floor are evidence that a new floor needs to be laid.
Some issues are fixable and others would not make it worth shelling out thousands for a new floor.
Some examples
Cracked floor
Cracks may mean a new floor is required, but it's not a sure thing.
Cracks can absolutely be a concern, but some are not worth the replacing an entire floor.
Water can be a cause of cracks, which we'll get to in a moment.
Another factor that could cause cracks in basement floors is foundation movement.
This is serious, as foundation issues are not to be taken lightly.
Uneven floor
Uneven slabs could indicate foundation movement or even hydrostatic pressure being placed on the foundation.
Moisture-damaged floor
As mentioned before, water can seep into your home's foundation and break apart concrete.
It would depend on how severe the deterioration is to determine what steps need to be taken.
Plumbing work
There are also some circumstances in which no issues are occurring, but other technicians or plumbers need to access under the slab
Contamination
In some scenarios, chemicals or sewage can seep into the foundation and require a new one.
Replacing vs. repairing
In some cases replacement is necessary. An important factor is how much the problem will continue to increase in the future.
That is one thing an inspector/estimator will look at when they come out.
They will look at the severity of the unevenness, the state of the vapor barrier, water intrusion severity, and the overall structural integrity of the foundation and walls.
Another obviously but equally important factor is the safety of everyone in the home. If your foundation puts safety at risk, it is an obvious replacement.
Common questions about concrete floor replacement
Is it doable?
It is doable in most cases, but it's not easy.
It oftentimes requires a crew with years of experience.
Remember, we are talking about the structural integrity of your home.
You do not want to do it wrong. That could lead to more extreme fees as well as safety issues.
Is excavation required?
Some cases will require excavation and others will not.
If your job requires an entirely new slab, excavation will be required. Oftentimes drainage and plumbing systems require excavation as well.
However, interior waterproofing systems oftentimes do not require extreme levels of excavation (often 18-24 inches on the interior).
What to ask basement contractors about laying a floor
- Does this project require a new floor to be laid?
- Will you add fiber reinforcement or rebar/wire mesh?
- Will water issues be handled as well?
- Will a vapor barrier be added under the slab?
- How long until I can finish it?
Who To Hire
Take a look at a recent concrete floor we laid for a customer (youtube link).
