Fill dirt under concrete slab. Learn more and order Secure Set at https://www.

Fill dirt under concrete slab But there are a couple more compelling reasons Base fill dirt is a critical component in the construction of a monolithic slab foundation, serving multiple vital functions. Jan 16, 2024 · You need a tunnel dug under your home to handle under-slab plumbing leaks and are wondering about filling it back in afterward. In some cases, they even lift the slab with the foam. Even hard to reach or hidden voids can be filled with Secure Set. The guest bathtub and toilet plumbing in this house clogged with mud. Aug 28, 2024 · Keep Up With Regular Maintenance Cleaning dirt and grime off the surface, sealing the concrete with a high-quality sealer, caulking gaps and cracks, and filling voids under the surface are all regular maintenance practices to help keep your concrete in good condition. I tunneled under the house to reach the cast iron pipe and fixed the damage. net This video shows how to use GRA Secure Set Spray Foam to fill voids underneath concrete slabs — whether those are Jun 9, 2025 · The recommended depth of gravel under a concrete slab for a barndominium typically ranges from 4 to 6 inches, but this can vary based on local building codes and soil conditions. This article covers the importance of proper drainage, suitable base materials, insulation options for energy efficiency, and effective vapor barriers to prevent moisture intrusion. Discover the best materials to place under your concrete slab to enhance durability and prevent cracking. Understanding Fill Dirt Mar 28, 2025 · Filling a void under a concrete slab is usually done by slab jacking. We explore the benefits of sand, including its lightweight nature and excellent drainage capabilities, while also addressing potential drawbacks. Overall, crushed stone gravel is typically the most popular concrete base. This article reviews the best way to handle backfilling tunnels and things to consider if you choose not to. Preparing the Soil for Concrete The soil you build your concrete pad on needs to be compact and well-drained to ensure the best concrete slab results. No personal experience, but I can tell you that you can't really compact fill under a slab so just filling it with dirt likely won't help. While it may seem like a simple A community designed to promote discussion between members of the concrete industry while simultaneously serving those outside the industry through its member's career acquired knowledge. Concrete leveling can fill rodent holes under concrete, stabilize the slab in place of the loosened soil, and lift the settled concrete back up into the proper position. As you start to place the concrete use a garden rake to pack it under the lip of the precast stairs. Sep 27, 2012 · Depending on your terrain, you may need to cut a key-way to get proper compaction on whatever fill material you decide to use. First and foremost, it creates a solid and stable surface for pouring concrete, which is essential for ensuring that the slab remains uniformly supported and level throughout its lifespan. Info on how to properly compact the subgrade and gravel base before placing concrete. net In this video, homeowner Nick uses GRA Secure Set Spray Foam to fill in the voids underneath his backyard patio, re Mudjacking Mudjacking is a traditional and common form of slab jacking. Backfilling, Leveling, and Compacting Gravel under Slab Mason Dixon Acres 103K subscribers Subscribe Just when we thought it was time to start the patio makeover, we found major erosion under our concrete aggregate. Oct 8, 2025 · What Type of Gravel Can You Use Under Concrete? Depending on the concrete slab you want, you can choose between various types of gravel. Do y'all have an opinion on this? I think I am okay with either option I just want to what's best. if it is an area fill . What About The Base (Base Course) In most cases, concrete slabs for patios or light driveways are made using a combination of coarse gravel for the subbase and fine aggregates for the base. The type of fill used depends on the soil conditions, the slab's function, and the region's climate. Mar 14, 2025 · 📹 How to Fix Erosion Under Concrete PATIO MAKEOVER PART 2 This video demonstrates how to fix erosion under a concrete slab. 298K subscribers in the HomeMaintenance community. Similarly, if there are roots or plants under your slab, they may rot and cause unevenness. Apr 14, 2014 · Bricks, Masonry, Cinder Block, Paving & Walking Stones, Asphalt and Concrete - How do I fill void under porch - This is my first post and thank you for being here I have a small crack in my basement wall foundation that has been slightly leaking recently. This is usually done with the slab jacking process. And to this forum. I'd appreciate some perspective on this: Would it be worth having a 3-foot-thick layer of sand put down before laying down a Apr 22, 2025 · Moles, voles, ground squirrels, gophers, and skunks burrow under concrete structures. If the dirt where the slab is has been undisturbed for a few years just grade it flat. Can anybody In this video, we explain how to fill a void under a concrete slab, a common issue caused by soil erosion or settlement. Note the erosion underneath. Jul 18, 2018 · Hello all, I am building a slab on grade structure using the techniques outlined on this and other reputable sites to prevent moisture and soil gas infiltration through the slab - i. Help! Found gap between ground and concrete slab when redoing garden beds. Slope the form slightly down to shed rain, 1/4-1/2” over the three foot pad. I went on the concrete network website and noted that they spoke specifcally about packing the fill dirt with a compactor helps in preventing cracks, and more importantly helps in stabalizing the slab form settling. Sep 29, 2021 · Fill dirt is a type of dirt that’s used to create a sturdy base to support a concrete foundation. Jun 26, 2025 · Mudjacking: drilling small holes and pumping a slurry mixture to fill voids Filling voids under a sidewalk with concrete can be done in a number of ways, including DIY and professional solutions. The right fill under a concrete slab provides essential support, reduces the risk of settlement, and enhances overall durability. You have a drainage issue, not necessarily a subpar concrete issue. Jun 20, 2022 · Subgrade concrete is the foundation of the soil support system that supports the subbase. I used a plywood form at the start to allow me to get a base of gravel under the slab. Left unaddressed, voids can lead to cracking, sinking, and structural instability. One traditional method is mudjacking, which involves drilling small holes and pumping a slurry mixture to fill voids. Learn how to prepare a good subgrade. Apr 11, 2025 · Learn how to safely and effectively fill voids under concrete slabs with expert tips from Pinnacle Concrete Solutions. Then I used a ram I built from a stake and a 2x4 to progressively push in layers of wet gravel/sand, and built up the dirt as I went. This is a cost-effective method for larger areas and uses natural materials Aug 1, 2025 · Seal the Gap Between Your Foundation and Concrete If you’ve got gaps where your concrete meets your home, don’t wait. Ask your do it yourself plumbing questions and get free answers as well as DIY information about faucets, toilets, pumps and water filters from plumbers at Plbg. Common tactics include exclusion, trapping, baiting, habitat modification Feb 20, 2024 · When it comes to projects involving concrete, whether it's a new driveway, patio, or walkway, the significance of proper backfilling with topsoil cannot be overstated. In this article, you’ll learn what causes these voids, the professional concrete repair methods that fill them, and how to prevent future damage to protect your property. Your ultimate guide to concrete slab repair. Bringing in fill dirt is not always necessary; with the right foundation system, it is possible to use the native soil that already exists onsite as the subgrade for your structure Compact Fill Under Slab - Concrete bends and breaks. Feb 4, 2004 · This is the third post I have made about my slab settling. You will need to work the soil to improve it to grow plants, flowers, shrubs, and even grass. The home was built in '85, and fortunately the stairs haven't sunk yet *knock on Jun 13, 2014 · First, solve the erosion problem by directing roof runoff away from the foundation. — and save yourself the headache May 11, 2022 · A house pad, also known as a slab or slab-on grade foundation should be carefully planned out for a secure foundation. Before the concrete slab is laid, the subbase needs to be compacted with a plate compactor to stabilize the system ready for the pouring of the concrete. Mar 22, 2024 · There’s a growing problem under your concrete. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the top choices for the best fill under concrete slab, offering expert reviews and valuable insights Mar 16, 2013 · This pic is of our driveway. I hope you will bare with me. Anytime you see a critter in the future, trap and relocate! Those little devils are cute, but the damage they cause is not! Jun 11, 2021 · Water and/or moisture Erosional and unstable dirt Your slab again Critters PRO #1: So one of the pros of filling voids with mud-pumping is that it takes up that empty space and prevents those areas from getting filled with something less desirable. It was filled with dirt, but mice like to dig in and nest in there. Alternatively, you can fill the hole using fine gravel or coarse sand with the help of 2. 4" of washed, crushed stone on compacted soil, with poly vapor barrier on top of stone and immediately under concrete slab. Time – removing and replacing a slab takes time and renders the area unusable for several days while the concrete cures. PolyLevel® is a foam injection that helps address the causes of voids, such as changes in soil, plumbing leaks, water damage, extreme weather, and soil consolidation. Request your Free Estimate Ask your do it yourself plumbing questions and get free answers as well as DIY information about faucets, toilets, pumps and water filters from plumbers at Plbg. It is particularly This Oct 2013 job was the perfect situation to show how void filling with polyurethane foam works. Here we Oct 31, 2022 · What causes voids under concrete? Soil and the materials typically placed under concrete settle naturally over time, and when concrete is resting fully on this base, it settles with these materials. A real must watch before you backfill any foundation!! Sep 26, 2023 · As burrowing pests create voids, tunnels, and weak places under the slab, they’re removing and displacing the important material that holds the slab in place. The homeowner discovered a large void under their patio and used expanding foam to fill it. , in your case get some dirt and a metal “post tamp” and pack the dirt in by hand it won’t take long then back fill. Here’s what you need to do: Clearing the Area Mar 8, 2020 · Let me start by saying that I'm new to this. Empower yourself to enhance your home’s structural integrity—no professionals required! Jun 5, 2023 · Summary There you have it people, everything you need to know about how to fill a void under a concrete slab. So in this video I show you how John and my dad fixed the void under the concrete Mar 17, 2023 · In this backyard DIY blog post I take you through how to fix erosion under concrete slab with poly foam and CPVC pipes. Voids typically open up under concrete slabs when they are supported by something in addition to just the base, like adjoining concrete slabs, or if the slab is rebarred into the structure of the With GRA Secure Set Spray Foam, you can repair erosion damage and fill washouts and voids deep underneath sidewalks, concrete slabs, driveways, pool decks, etc. ) above this area. Discover the methods and materials u May 1, 2000 · Learn how to fill a cavity under a slab a breeze with a quick jig made using some PVC pipe, a screw, and a washer; it's simple and effective. This comprehensive guide explores causes, the significance of addressing voids, and cost-effective methods like grouting, polyurethane foam injection, and mudjacking. The concrete looks okay, but enough water is going to wash out even the best built project. <G> If it's slab prep, I like to see clean material in the last two lifts -- ideally nothing bigger than about 3/4". . We provide step-by-step instructions, tips on avoiding mistakes, and insights into the causes of these voids. Preparing the area for a concrete base Before you can lay your concrete base, it’s crucial to prepare the area properly. To back-fill the tunnel I used a technique called Jul 29, 2020 · Soil erosion is one of the most difficult things a homeowner can deal with. The most common fill materials are gravel, sand, crushed stone, and fill dirt, each with their own advantages and Fixing Erosion Under Concrete The best way to fix erosion under concrete is to fill voids with material that’s resistant to erosion. This is a step that should not be rushed; meticulous preparation will pave the way for a smooth, durable concrete slab that will stand the test of time. Left untreated, these burrowing pests can quickly cause dangerous, expensive damage to your foundation, slab, sidewalk, or driveway. To deter these pests, dig a trench approximately 2 feet deep and 6 inches wide around the area. Learn the differences between fill dirt, fill sand and fill gravel. Oct 21, 2013 · Bricks, Masonry, Cinder Block, Paving & Walking Stones, Asphalt and Concrete - Pouring concrete under existing slab. There are no structural issues (cracks, etc. Controlling burrowing pests requires a comprehensive approach tailored to the pests on your property. Jul 4, 2021 · Fill or Backfill Compaction Requirements for Sand, Subgrade, Sub Base, Base Course and Asphalt Fill or Backfill Compaction Requirements for Sand, Subgrade, Sub Base, Base Course and Asphalt Concrete: Contractor’s testing agency shall be a Client approved civil testing agency. Reply reply tatanka01 • Apr 8, 2016 · I have a 50' x 6' concrete slab in front of our basement that supports the same size wooden deck above with 6 post for the upstairs. Filling a void under a concrete slab is essential to restore How to Fill Voids Under a Concrete Slab There are several ways to fill material under a concrete slab and remove voids. Seem like a good idea? Anyone have a better one? The groundhog pulled out at least a full 5 gallon bucket worth of sand and dirt. Afterward, you can make some more mix-up that’s a little wet and pack it right inside the hole. Aug 15, 2023 · Slab voids are the empty spaces that form under a concrete slab because of things like erosion, soil settlement, or bad building techniques. As one of the few trade subs that still allows homeowners' questions, help keep this resource available by using the search bar first to try and find answers before posting questions. The erosion only extends about 6-14 inches (from left to right) underneath the slab. Apr 29, 2024 · In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the importance of fill dirt, its selection process, and how to properly apply it under a concrete slab. There are a variety of fill materials you can use. Beyond that, there's good, solid compacted dirt supporting the slab. Read on to learn how to prepare your space for pouring concrete. Foundation repair can sometimes be an expensive, yet unavoidable process. With expert insights and practical comparisons, ensure your Jul 27, 2025 · Laying a concrete slab requires careful preparation to ensure it is robust and durable. Obviously that amount of concrete is expensive. The longer water has a path under your slabs, the more damage it can do. With Secure Set Spray Foam there is no need to remove concrete, backfill and compact the soil, and then replace the concrete. Water helps compact. Trap and relocate all critters first. Overview of Under Concrete Filler Under concrete filler isn’t just a fancy term for dirt. It’s all about understanding and working with the ground, not against it. Can you pour concrete on top of soil? It is not advisable to pour concrete directly on dirt. How can you get it compacted to restore Feb 6, 2019 · (Of the most resilient concrete slab jacking foams, AP Lift 430 is proven to lift concrete slabs under harsh conditions. Jul 2, 2023 · As I started backfilling dirt from this project, I realized I could backfill the gravel as well with a bit of patience. Jun 8, 2016 · Subgrade preparation is a critical aspect of concrete slab construction. I'm thinking of mixing up a real wet batch of cement so it flows into all the crevices of the hole, and maybe building up a shoulder of dirt around the opening so I can overfill it and give the cement more head pressure like you would for a metal casting. Use self-compacting fill. Learn more and order Secure Set at https://www. Feb 10, 2025 · Most often, the culprit is unstable or eroded soil beneath the slab; however, the full story involves a few additional factors. Jan 22, 2019 · If you need fill for your project, you may be wondering which will best suit your needs. Basically under the concrete you don't want any settling. Nov 21, 2016 · Using two feet or more of well-compacted fill under the new slab is a good thing. If its been dug up, then when the dirt goes back in, tamp it down with the end of a 2x4 every couple inches of fill. My research tells me that sand is the most ideal material to have underneath any concrete foundation. This type involves pouring a thick slab of concrete directly on the ground, reinforced with steel to resist the pressures of expansive clay. At least with foam or concrete, you can fill the gap with something that won't "settle" later. Simply pouring concrete onto the ground will expose it to elemental erosion that will cause cracking and sinking. Concrete is a porous Discover the essential factors to consider for what goes under your concrete slab to ensure its longevity and performance. Fill dirt, also known as backfill, is soil that has been excavated from one area and used to fill in another, often to level out the ground or create a foundation for a building or pavement. Nov 1, 2023 · How to Fill Void Under Concrete Slab The preferred method for filling voids under a concrete slab is through concrete leveling, specifically using PolyLevel® injection. This is happening under the slab my ac unit sits on, pretty sure it’s rabbits. Explore expert steps and methods in this concise guide. We fill in voids under sidewalks and with sand Water works well to help the sand flow and provides a solid base where there was a void. In this blog post, we'll delve into the importance of topsoil in backfilling around concrete and why it should never be neglected. Context: I live in Louisiana and we have a lot of clay. It can also reduce a foundation’s integrity, causing cracks in the concrete. Learn how it compares to other materials like gravel and crushed stone, and get practical tips for preparing a solid foundation that enhances durability for your Three ways to fill a void under a concrete slab are mudjacking, polyjacking, and sectional slab repair. Subsoil is probably cheapest and 95% compaction is typically adequate. Both mudjacking and polyjacking fall under slab jacking, which is a practice that essentially fills the void to “jack up” the concrete slab and return it to its original alignment. Aug 17, 2024 · Learn how to DIY fill voids under concrete slabs. This article will walk you through some potential causes, and how to fix a void under a concrete slab foundation. That includes crushed stone, pea gravel, washed clean stones, white marble chips, and quarry process. Discover how to select the right base for your specific needs, learn essential compaction tips, and understand the importance of local soil Sep 26, 2002 · Fill the block with concrete before starting or you will collasp a wall. This mixture of sand, cement, and water is pumped through holes drilled in a slab foundation to fill voids underneath. These voids can appear underneath driveways, sidewalks, pool decks and other slabs. This material fills gaps, stabilizes surfaces, and ensures your concrete has a solid foundation. 4 days ago · Discover the best ways to fill voids under concrete slabs and restore your foundation's integrity. Dig down to where you can see the entirety of the hole. This comprehensive article examines options like gravel, sand, and foam boards, highlighting their benefits and drawbacks. This involves drilling small holes through the slab and injecting a filler material. Heavy rains washed out about an 18" by 48" by 9" deep area of soil/sand from underneath the slab/footing on the front corner of the home. This way you can prevent it. Jun 27, 2025 · Learn how to fill under a concrete slab the right way. Read our guide on how to repair soil erosion around your concrete patio. This is a cost-effective method for larger areas and uses natural materials Feb 11, 2023 · One way to fill groundhog holes under concrete is by mixing up a wet slurry of gravel, sand, and cement, and then pouring it in. Apr 2, 2015 · If the soil is native, undisturbed soil (as opposed to fill), and is a strong enough soil type, then it may not need any compaction prior to pouring the slab. From outside it is the area under my front porch so I Aug 9, 2015 · DEAR TOM: Uncompacted fill under a concrete slab – be it for an entire home, an exterior patio, a front porch or a driveway – is a recipe for disaster. We ask anyone who is not Nov 3, 2022 · Poor soil compaction, using incorrect soil type, and improper drainage of fill dirt can cause foundation issues. Neglecting proper subgrade preparation can lead to costly repairs, structural issues, and reduced lifespan of the slab. The choice of fill material underneath the slab is critical to its longevity and stability. The area within the foundation walls shall have all vegetation, top soil and foreign material removed. Aug 16, 2005 · Due to the steep grade of my lot, my garage slab will be well above grade, and the back foundation of the garage VERY high (the foundation will be engineered, with a huge footing and buttress walls). Discover how sand enhances drainage and stability, reduces cracking, and what proper compaction can achieve. You'll need to place layers of compacted sand and gravel on top of the base layer to keep your soil from cracking and crumbling if you live in a clay-rich area. Stay away from any top soil or dirt containing organic decomposition. At this point, you could salvage it with a flowable fill, but you need to Jul 24, 2020 · Whether you are pouring a patio, a base for a shed, or some other concrete project, the most important steps happen way before the concrete truck arrives. It's cleaner and faster than mudjacking. Then fill the form and screed with any curve in the screed board concave down. Does it sound hollow or show signs of erosion and washout? How can you fill in a void under your sidewalk, driveway, or patio? This article explains how mud-pumping slurry is a solution to fill a growing space under concrete to help prevent settlement. Apr 11, 2019 · Bricks, Masonry, Cinder Block, Paving & Walking Stones, Asphalt and Concrete - How to fill large void under concrete slab? - There is a large void under the slab of the garage where it meets the asphalt parking lot. The specific concrete mixture, foundation design and reinforcement, and weight of the building are all factors that determine if the soil strength is sufficient. The slurry material flows and fills every little space, permeating even the smallest pockets of air. Pouring concrete for slabs, driveways, walkways, patios or any other project necessitates tightly packed soil to ensure the integrity of the concrete. I've seen videos where people use expanding foam spray cans to fill voids under concrete slabs. Concrete block ledges on footer. Has another concrete guy tell me to get down to about 6" and the lay some gravel/rocks down. Dec 16, 2024 · Voids beneath concrete slabs can pose a significant threat to the stability of your home, driveway, or patio. Proper Concrete Site Prep Sep 13, 2025 · How do you fill dirt under concrete slab? To ensure the soil on your build site has ideal properties for concrete slab support, it is common practice for contractors to haul in new soil to be used as “fill”. I spoke with a concrete guy and he said to pull the top 12" of dirt out and lay down "red dirt" because it compacts well. Experiencing soil erosion under your house foundation? Learn 7 ways to prevent soil erosion around your house foundation, then contact URETEK Gulf Coast! Mark Kranenburg explains and shows proper backfilling techniques and materials. Voids can lead to a weakness in the slab, causing dips in the surface, tilting or cracks and breaks. An area next to this driveway was washing out and we were called in to support/stabilize the side Deciding between sand and gravel for your concrete slab base can dramatically impact your project's success. This guide covers how to fill a void under a concrete slab, including DIY options. Removed the concrete and cast iron drains. Uncover essential tips and insights to ensure a strong foundation for your concrete slabs, maximizing their longevity and Jun 13, 2014 · First, solve the erosion problem by directing roof runoff away from the foundation. Because my timeline is very flexible, can/should I get a truckload of dirt and fill the area in and grade the yard before I pour the slab? How long would I need to wait before pouring after putting in the dirt and what would I need to do to the dirt to compact it?. Mar 8, 2025 · Foundation Types Suitable for Clay Soils Slab-on-Grade Foundations Slab-on-grade foundations are a common choice for construction on clay soil house foundations due to their simplicity and effectiveness in managing soil movement. Scritchlow Concrete Lifting and Slab Jacking uses only crushed limestone and Portland cement which is not susceptible to erosion. secureset. This is important to prevent falls. Learn when to tackle DIY repairs and when to hire a professional to prevent future structural damage, ensuring your home remains Apr 9, 2024 · Looking for the best fill dirt for your concrete slab project? Discover expert tips and advice on selecting the right fill dirt to ensure a strong and stable foundation for your construction project. Le’ts explore the importance of subgrade preparation and provide a comprehensive guide to achieving a solid foundation for your concrete slabs. Uncover essential tips and insights to ensure a strong foundation for your concrete slabs, maximizing their longevity and Dec 10, 2022 · To fill the void under a concrete slab, you’ll need to pour a foundation. Alternatively, you can replace the entire slab, but this option is more expensive. The crushed rock fill required will vary in depth from 6′ to 16′! Is this depth of fill even feasible? Jun 5, 2020 · 1 With the small area and it being on the edge just pack it with dirt. Learn how these choices can save you time, money, and structural integrity—transforming Mar 10, 2002 · Dirt is also good for building up a pad, but will require compaction before you can pour concrete on it, or you will have issues with the concrete cracking as the dirt settles under it. Oct 20, 2025 · Before you start pouring, should you use sand or gravel under a concrete slab? Let's explore how the foundation below your concrete works. Then underpin the footings with concrete, compacted fill, or special anchors. Dec 2, 2021 · You can build up the dirt to improve the soil to grow plants next to your foundation. For filling a void under a concrete slab, polyurethane foam injection is the preferred solution. Nov 14, 2023 · Discover the role of gravel under concrete, Why it's needed, how to choose the right type, and the proper installation process for a durable, long-lasting slab Compacted dirt goes under concrete slab. So, I dug out a bunch of the dirt and plan to fill in with May 21, 2016 · As it is it creates a hazard to anyone stepping in the holes and breaking an ankle, so fill them in packing the fill in to support the slab, and evening out the area. Pack That looks like an abnormal amount of water. If you place concrete directly onto dirt, water will collect under the concrete and slowly erode the bottom of the pad. 5 days ago · What is the best material to use under a concrete slab? Crusher run and #57 coarse aggregate are two excellent base materials for concrete slabs. Get some patching concrete and fill in the holes, pushing it in there thick. I'm referring to the "Gaps & Cracks" foam and similar. Jul 31, 2018 · Guide to subgrades and subbases, which support concrete slabs. You can use a "sheep's foot" or tractor to compact the moist soil. It should fill the void and give support. Base course or engineered fill work real well, crusher fines for the last thin lift gives the concrete guys a real smooth surface. The video details the process of measuring the void, using CPVC pipes to inject the foam, and the importance of safety precautions when handling the pressurized foam. I have a small rodent that is digging under my concrete slab walkway and has now created quite the empty space under it. Feb 11, 2023 · One way to fill groundhog holes under concrete is by mixing up a wet slurry of gravel, sand, and cement, and then pouring it in. Apr 4, 2025 · Voids under concrete can affect the material's stability. Sep 25, 2025 · How To Get Rid Of Burrowing Animals Under Concrete Slab? Exclusion methods are vital for preventing voles and rats from burrowing under concrete structures such as foundations, driveways, and sidewalks. Can I just pour concrete underneath and fill dirt against it? How would you do it? Feb 1, 2003 · If the backfill under the slab has not been properly compacted, the structural fill will eventually settle, leaving voids. The foundation will help stabilize the concrete and ensure that it doesn’t crack or sink over time. These holes can cause the building to be unstable, cause concrete to sink, and put people who live or visit the building in danger. Concrete is an amazing material, but it 4 days ago · Discover the role of sand as a sub base for concrete slabs in our comprehensive guide. com Jun 26, 2023 · Source Top Quality Fill Dirt for Construction from Barclay Earth Depot Applying these simple yet effective tips for fill dirt compaction can make a significant difference in your construction projects. Learn to repair these gaps safely and efficiently, using essential tools and materials. Same solution or is that small enough to attempt a DIY? Reply reply ricardo603 • backfill with gravel Reply reply more replies more replies More replies Jaepheth • Learn more and order Secure Set Spray Foam at https://www. Loose soil allows for too much ground movement resulting in cracks and unstable foundations and footings. Sand or gravel compacts well, but if what's under it isn't compacted it's sort of moot. Aug 12, 2025 · Pouring concrete on fill dirt is a common practice in construction, but it requires careful consideration to ensure the stability and durability of the resulting structure. - I am trying to fill a void at the top of the pictured staircase. That will eventually cause the slab to break. What would be the proper method of replacing this soil/sand other than just shoving it back underneath. Once again, voids under concrete slabs are very dangerous, particularly if there are walls and more floors above, so you need to make sure to correct the issues ASAP. Usually, the soil used around a foundation has a lot of fill soil and junk left over from the build. Replaced with dwv. Learn how proper selection can boost a slab's lifespan by up to 30% and reduce heating costs by 20%. Any tips on backfilling the hole? Any advice on mixing/setting the concrete? I'm thinking about a pea gravel bed under the pipes to set the grade and then mixing the concrete in a 5 gallon bucket when If you even keep the dirt level where it’s at, soil will continue to migrate away from that edge and out from under the slab. Topsoil plays a crucial role in ensuring the stability, longevity, and safety of concrete structures. The home is complete minus a few finishing touches. We'll cover the tools and materials you'll need, as well as step-by-step instructions to ensure a successful project. Preparing your concrete slab with gravel underneath can be tricky. What suggestions are there for filling it in and maintaining the stability of the slab as a walkway? Do I drill a hole then fill with something? Do I try and jam as much material as I can into the hole to try and fill it? May 19, 2024 · When it comes to ensuring the longevity and stability of a concrete slab, choosing the best fill material is crucial. This two-component, high-strength, high-density, hydro-insensitive structural polyurethane foam is the top slab jacking solution for concrete slab foundation repair, soil stabilization, and compaction grouting. 4 days ago · Tackle the common issue of voids under your concrete slab with our comprehensive DIY guide. A type of sand-cement slurry (called “mud” in the industry) can be used to fill voids under concrete slabs. Several options are available for the filling material. The soil under it washed away due to poor drainage. net This video shows how to use GRA Secure Set Spray foam to fill cavities underneath a flagstone and concrete swimming pool deck. These gaps often result from soil erosion, improper compaction during construction, or water drainage issues. I know there are products specifically formulated for this, but is the stuff in the cans ok for this. There’s no way to really tell if there was something wrong with with the concrete or subgrade from this picture. It serves a critical role in construction that can make or break your projects. Before starting construction, the dirt work must be prepared. Contact Concrete Chiropractor Today. Learn why voids form under concrete slabs, how to fix them, and which repair solution is right for your property. use a red sand clay mix ( southern dirt) or a non swelling clay with alot of sand in it. Because concrete is porous, it absorbs water. This creates a nicely compactable platform for the Aug 1, 2025 · What happens if you pour concrete without gravel? Adding crushed stone under your concrete slab will provide a level surface for your foundation. This usually means well-compacted crushed stone or course gravel. May 27, 2025 · Can You Pour Concrete On Dirt? - Civil Engineering Explained Can you put concrete on top of soil? Can I pour concrete straight onto soil? It's essential to have a base under your concrete slab, and it's recommended to use a sub base underneath from compacted gravel, rather than sand or soil alone, as this can lead to movement and moisture damage. com Fill the ditch with gravel and then use a high flow concrete to get underneath the slab when you repour the cut out section. Most people use concrete slabs to build patios or driveways, so a fine aggregate May 15, 2025 · Instead, use a layer of gravel underneath your concrete slab. Alternatively, sand and dirt based grout can be installed, but is much like Feb 10, 2006 · So old cars are out. Feb 24, 2006 · Florida home - new construction - concrete block on mono slab. Apr 2, 2010 · Concrete slabs can develop voids from a variety of reasons, ranging from sliding soil beneath the slab displaced because of a lack of proper compression, to water erosion slowly washing away the soil over time. Aug 23, 2023 · You’ll be glad you did. Professional slab repair specialists know how to fill voids under concrete slabs and restore the quality of the structure of your foundation. Is sand a good base for a concrete slab? This article delves into the advantages and disadvantages of using sand compared to alternatives like gravel and soil. Since a slab-on-grade is not meant to be structural — supporting its own weight plus any imposed loads — the slab will certainly crack if the voids are large enough. Jul 9, 2012 · Hello, We have poured concrete front steps that lead into our house from the ground level, and I've always noticed how there's dirt missing underneath them, but finally getting around to addressing the issue. This article explores the key advantages and disadvantages of each material, focusing on drainage, stability, and proper installation techniques. While it is best to place footings on undisturbed native soils that have been well compacted by nature over the eons, footings can rest on appropriate fill. Slab Jacking This is a means of filling voids underneath concrete slabs by injecting/pumping filler materials into the defective areas. Mar 21, 2022 · Slab on grade construction. The gravel screed is a simple tool for getting a perfectly flat gravel base for your concrete slab foundation. Learn more and order Secure Set Spray Foam at https://www. You could backfill with gravel and then poly jack after you have the missing section repoured but flowable fill or a wet mix juked in there would be fine and cheaper. A-1 Concrete Leveling can help you get ahead of the damage, with a clean, professional caulking job that’s built to last. Apr 8, 2023 · When a void under a concrete slab develops, the damage can be costly. e. Learn how to fill a void under concrete slabs to ensure stability and longevity. Discover Superior PolyLift™'s effective techniques for stable and durable concrete surfaces. 3″ flex tubing or piping. hja snhse qojx vxisf qrz nokpv mbsrcz ogee hsr uqmh zmnuh xtxz fnlyv zfky aom