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If you’ve noticed that your concrete has shifted upward during the winter months, you may be wondering whether this is a cause for concern. In most cases, this movement is due to frost heave, a natural process caused by the expansion of frozen moisture in the soil beneath your concrete. While this is a common occurrence, it’s important to understand when it may require professional attention.
What Causes Frost Heave?
During winter, the moisture in the soil beneath your concrete freezes and expands, pushing the concrete upward. This phenomenon typically affects driveways, sidewalks, patios, and other exterior slabs. Once the ground thaws in the spring, the concrete often settles back into place without issue.
When Should You Be Concerned?
In many cases, frost heave is temporary, and your concrete will return to its normal position as temperatures rise. However, there are situations where the movement may indicate a more serious issue, including:
- Permanent displacement – If the concrete does not return to its original position after the thaw, it could be a sign of deeper soil instability.
- Cracks or uneven surfaces – Excessive movement can lead to cracks or uneven sections, which may pose a tripping hazard or worsen over time.
- Repeated heaving each winter – If the problem recurs every year, it may be a sign that the underlying soil is highly susceptible to frost-related movement.
What Can Be Done?
If your concrete does not settle back into place after winter or has sustained damage, it may be time to seek professional help. At TerraFirma, we offer solutions such as polyurethane foam injection to lift and stabilize uneven concrete permanently. This method is minimally invasive and provides long-term stability, preventing future movement.
Protect Your Concrete Year-Round
To help minimize the effects of frost heave, consider the following preventative measures:
- Improve drainage – Ensure water drains away from your concrete to reduce excess moisture in the soil.
- Seal joints and cracks – Prevent water from seeping below your concrete and freezing by sealing cracks and expansion joints.
- Proper soil preparation – If you’re installing new concrete, using well-compacted gravel beneath the slab can help reduce frost-related movement.
Get Expert Advice
If your concrete in Portland, Vancouver, Beaverton, Hillsboro, or Tigard hasn’t returned to its normal position after winter or if you’re concerned about recurring movement, TerraFirma can help. Our experts will assess the situation and provide a customized solution to keep your concrete stable year-round.
Schedule a free inspection today and ensure your concrete stays safe and secure!
