Get matched with top foundation repair specialists in Mesilla Park, NM

You can seal a concrete slab by cleaning the surface, filling in any cracks, etching the surface, applying a sealer, and letting it dry. Concrete slabs don't typically need sealing, but you can use a topical concrete sealer if you notice signs of water damage. If you haven't already fixed the cause of the leak, then you'll want to repair the plumbing before you seal a concrete slab.

Signs of structural damage include foundation cracks, roof leaks, bouncy floors, crumbling concrete, and cracked or leaning chimneys. Structural damage can make itself apparent in various ways, and sometimes, there may not be obvious signs. Inspect your foundation and roof annually to stay ahead of potentially serious structural problems. 

Underpinning is a specific type of foundation repair where a specialist installs deep piers under a foundation to provide additional support. This method is often used when the soil beneath the foundation can no longer evenly support the structure. Foundation repair is an umbrella term that includes many methods. Besides underpinning, other common repairs include foundation crack repair, waterproofing, cosmetic repairs, and concrete block wall stabilization. Often, underpinning is accompanied by other work to address the root cause of the foundation issue, such as regrading the yard to ensure water drains away from the house.

The average home foundation lasts between 80 and 100 years, but some can last much longer with proper maintenance and routine inspections. The lifespan depends on the foundation type, soil conditions, climate, and construction quality. Poured concrete walls can last up to 200 years, brick or stone foundations over 100 years, cement block foundations 80 to 100 years, and pier foundations about 75 years. Factors that can shorten a foundation's life include expansive clay soil, poor weather conditions, low-quality building materials, improper construction, and tree roots. Signs of damage include sloping floors, bowing walls, cracks, and doors or windows that stick.