I've got a concrete slab in my backyard that wasn't sloped away from my house, and now water is pooling next to the foundation, slowly seeping into my finished basement. Contractor 1 wants to remove the concrete and replace it with properly graded dirt. However, Contractor 2 argues that even though the concrete isn't perfectly graded, it's still better than just dirt and suggests that without proper waterproofing, removing it could lead to more issues. So, what do you all think? Is graded dirt really a better solution than the concrete I have?
3 Answers
I’d look into foam jacking to lift the slab; it’s usually more affordable and can address your sloping issue without total replacement. But if it’s been causing persistent water issues, maybe just removing it and adding some waterproofing solutions, like a French drain, could solve your problems long-term. Leaving or lifting it won’t eliminate the water seeping through the foundation, so adjustments are needed regardless.
I totally understand your dilemma. I've been through something similar. A well-graded concrete slab can help direct water away from your foundation, but if it’s not sloped correctly, it’s causing your current issues. If it’s within your budget, tearing out the slab and replacing it might be the best option to ensure it’s done right. If you’re not too attached to the slab, getting rid of it could save you more headaches down the line. If you want to keep it, consider mud jacking to adjust the slope instead.
Yeah, mud jacking could work if you want to avoid a complete overhaul. It’s definitely cheaper than ripping everything out!
Honestly, a well-prepped dirt pad can be beneficial, especially if it’s compacted and topped with a good layer of leveled cement. You might get the best of both worlds that way. But just keep in mind that if the underlying problem is water seeping through, you’ll still need to address the waterproofing separately, no matter what you choose to do.
Exactly! It's crucial to deal with the water issue properly—otherwise, you're just putting a band-aid on a bigger problem.