Learn about common concrete problems in new home construction and smart repair solutions for home builders.
When it comes to building homes that stand the test of time, laying solid concrete is just one of the many parts to get right. But even the best-laid slabs can settle, shift, or crack.
That’s where having a knowledgeable concrete repair partner comes in, especially when you’re juggling post-construction warranties.
At A-1 Concrete Leveling, we’ve been helping builders protect their reputation for over 30 years. In this article, we’ll explore why concrete problems happen after new construction and how to fix them.
Most Common Concrete Issues in New Construction
Even when done right, concrete in new construction can present a few common post-build problems. These issues are often natural consequences of how the ground and environment interact with new materials.
Recognizing and proactively addressing these trouble spots can help home builders get ahead of warranty calls and maintain client trust.
1. Settling Concrete
One of the most frequent issues in new builds is slab settlement. This happens when the soil or backfill beneath the concrete continues to settle or erode, often within the first 5 to 10 years after construction.
Settling leads to uneven slabs, trip hazards, and drainage problems that can quickly snowball into larger structural concerns if left untreated.
The fix: Concrete leveling is a reliable way to lift slabs back into place without demolition or replacement.
2. Concrete Cracks
Cracking is another nearly unavoidable problem in new concrete. Some cracks are superficial and due to normal shrinkage during curing. Others are structural and stem from movement in the soil, improper joint spacing, or heavy loads.
While some minor cracking is to be expected, open cracks should be addressed promptly to avoid water infiltration, pest intrusion, or accelerated wear.
The fix: Concrete caulking fills cracks and joints to create a watertight seal, which also helps prevent the soil underneath from washing out, causing settling.
3. Vulnerable Surfaces
Fresh concrete may look strong, but its surface is porous and vulnerable. If left unprotected, it can absorb moisture, oils, salt, and other contaminants that shorten its lifespan and lead to issues like spalling or staining.
The fix: Applying a penetrating concrete sealer after the initial curing period helps create an invisible moisture barrier that strengthens and protects the concrete surface.
Commercial Concrete Solutions for Builders
When warranty work calls, time is money. That’s why you need minimally disruptive repair methods to get you back on track:
Concrete Leveling
Concrete leveling is a process that involves drilling holes into a settled slab, injecting a leveling mixture underneath, and lifting it back to the proper position as the voids beneath are filled.
The process is fast (usually complete in less than a day), cost-effective, and doesn’t damage landscaping or new sod.
Crack and Joint Caulking
Caulking cracks and control joints is key to preventing water intrusion, the number one reason concrete settles again. Commercial caulking services use flexible, long-lasting polymers designed to move with the concrete and protect it for years.
Concrete Cleaning & Sealing
Cleaning and sealing services keep your projects looking fresh and protected. Sealing concrete not only boosts curb appeal for walkthroughs and closings, but it also extends the lifespan of concrete by repelling moisture and resisting stains.
The Cost of Leveling vs. Replacement
Tearing out and replacing settled concrete is costly, messy, and time-consuming. Concrete leveling, on the other hand, can save up to 70% off the cost of replacement.
Here’s what makes leveling the better choice for home builders:
- Faster turnaround – Most jobs are completed in a day
- No demolition or damage to landscaping
- No color mismatch or long wait time for curing
Eliminating New-Build Concrete Issues
You build beautiful homes. Let us help keep them that way.
Concrete issues in new builds don’t have to put your reputation at risk. With non-invasive repair solutions like concrete leveling, you can keep your buyers happy, your budget in check, and your projects moving forward without a hitch.
Need help on a recent job? Request a free onsite estimate to get started, or learn more with our online resource library, Concrete Academy.
Sarah Etler
Sarah Etler joined A-1 Concrete Leveling after receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Northern Kentucky University. As A-1's Content Marketing Manager, she works closely with industry experts to produce content that will best answer questions related to concrete repair and maintenance practices. Sarah loves living a life full of discovery and is excited every day to see what new things she can learn and share with those around her.
