What happens if you don't put gravel underneath concrete

Gravel Importance For Concrete Installation

Hey there! Are you planning to have a concrete installation soon? If yes, then you might want to know what happens if you don't put gravel underneath your concrete.

First things first, let's talk about why gravel is essential for concrete installation. Gravel is a compact and coarse material that is usually placed under the concrete slab to provide a stable base. This base prevents the concrete from cracking or sinking, especially when it is exposed to heavy loads or the movement of the earth.

Now, what happens if you skip this crucial step of placing gravel under the concrete? Well, let me tell you, it can lead to a lot of problems in the long run. Here are some of the consequences of not using gravel for your concrete installation:

1. Uneven Surface: Without gravel, the soil beneath the concrete can shift over time. This movement can cause your concrete surface to become uneven and crack. If your concrete is not level, it can be a tripping hazard, especially for the elderly or young children.

2. Cracking: As mentioned earlier, gravel is used to provide a stable base for the concrete slab. Without this base, the concrete can crack, especially when exposed to heavy loads. The cracks can lead to water seepage, which can further damage the concrete and cause it to deteriorate.

3. Sinking: The soil beneath the concrete can also settle over time if there is no gravel base. This settlement can cause the concrete to sink, making it uneven and unstable. If the sinking is severe, you may need to replace the entire concrete surface, which can be costly and time-consuming.

4. Structural Damage: Skipping the gravel base can also lead to structural damage to your home or building. When the soil beneath the concrete moves or sinks, it can affect the foundation of the structure. This movement can cause cracks in the walls and ceilings, which can compromise the stability of the building.

5. Drainage Issues: Gravel also helps with drainage by allowing water to flow away from the concrete surface. Without a gravel base, water can pool on the surface, leading to erosion and other water damage.

In conclusion, skipping the gravel base for your concrete installation is not worth the risk. The consequences can be severe and costly in the long run. It's better to take the time and effort to ensure that your concrete installation is done correctly the first time.

At Waukesha Concrete by JJ, we understand the importance of a stable base for your concrete installation. That's why we always use gravel as a base for our concrete slabs. We take pride in providing quality concrete installation services that will last for years to come.

If you have any questions or need help with your concrete installation, feel free to contact us. Our team of experts is always ready to assist you in any way possible. Thanks for reading, and we hope to hear from you soon!