MAJOR CAUSES OF CONCRETE SLAB FAILURE
*MAJOR CAUSES OF CONCRETE SLAB FAILURE (FULL-DEPTH CRACKING)* The crack shown in the image is a serious structural issue — not just a cosmetic surface crack. This type of damage typically results from the following: *1. Differential Settlement of the Subgrade* ➡️ This is the most common cause. It is often due to: - Poor compaction of the sub-base or backfill - Variations in soil moisture or expansive clay soils - Organic material or soft spots left unremoved beneath the slab - Improper compaction around plumbing trenches ๐ The crack often follows a pipe trench that settles over time — one side drops, the other remains intact. *2. Missing or Improper Construction Joints* ❌ No saw-cut control joints ❌ No expansion joints ❌ No dowels or continuity reinforcement ➡️ The slab then cracks naturally along its weakest points due to lack of joint guidanc...