Understanding Why Concrete Settles in Des Moines, IA
Des Moines homeowners are no strangers to Iowa’s unpredictable weather. Between heavy spring rains, dry summers, and freezing winter temperatures, the ground beneath your home is constantly shifting. Each time the soil expands after rainfall or contracts during dry periods, small gaps form underneath your concrete. Over time, those gaps grow—causing your driveway, sidewalk, or patio to sink and crack.
This movement is made worse by Des Moines’ naturally clay-rich soil, which holds moisture like a sponge. When the soil freezes, it pushes upward on the slab, and when it thaws, the ground drops again, leaving voids that compromise your concrete’s stability.
Here are some of the most common reasons concrete settles in the Des Moines area:
- Insufficient soil compaction during the home’s original construction
- Excess moisture or poor drainage around your foundation
- Tree root decay and natural soil erosion beneath the slab
- Repeated freeze-thaw cycles during Iowa winters
These factors not only affect your home’s appearance but also its safety and long-term structural integrity. Helitech’s concrete leveling experts tackle the problem at its source by stabilizing the soil and lifting your slabs with precision—restoring a smooth, durable surface that’s built to last.