Penetrometer testing helps evaluate the strength of the soil beneath your concrete slab before leveling begins. At '58 Foundations & Waterproofing, we use this method to identify weak or unstable ground and ensure your concrete repair is built to last.
When it comes to concrete leveling, the condition of the soil beneath your slab is just as important as the slab itself. If the soil is too weak to support the weight of your concrete, no amount of lifting will provide a lasting solution — the slab will eventually sink again.
That’s where penetrometer testing comes in. At '58 Foundations & Waterproofing, your trusted concrete leveling company, we use this testing method to help ensure your soil is stable enough to hold your concrete slab in place after leveling.
A penetrometer test measures the strength and stability of the soil beneath your concrete. Using a portable device, our team pushes or drives a metal probe into the ground. The resistance encountered gives us a reliable measure of the soil’s density and load-bearing capacity.
In simple terms, it tells us how well your soil can support the concrete above it.
When a concrete slab sinks or cracks, it’s almost always a sign of soil failure beneath it. Over time, changes in moisture, erosion, and poor compaction can weaken the ground that supports your slab. If this weakened soil isn’t properly addressed, the slab may continue to shift or sink, even after leveling. That’s why understanding soil strength is critical. A penetrometer test helps us determine whether the underlying soil is capable of supporting the slab long-term or if additional stabilization is needed to ensure a lasting repair.
At '58 Foundations & Waterproofing, we are committed to delivering concrete repairs that hold up over time. By incorporating penetrometer testing into our concrete leveling process, we can identify areas where the soil may be too weak to support the slab. This allows us to recommend soil stabilization techniques, such as polyurethane injection or targeted compaction, as needed. Testing also helps guide our lifting process by showing us where the soil is strong enough to hold the slab in place and where it may need reinforcement. The result is a more even lift and a repair that is built to last.
Not every concrete leveling project requires penetrometer testing, but it can be especially valuable when we encounter signs of significant slab sinking, large voids beneath the concrete, or when the property is located in an area known for poor soil conditions or erosion. Our experienced concrete leveling contractors will explain whether testing is recommended for your home and help you understand the benefits it can provide. It is also a smart option for homeowners who want the added peace of mind that comes from knowing the ground beneath their slab has been properly evaluated.
Concrete leveling isn’t just about lifting a slab — it’s about making sure the ground beneath it is ready to hold that slab in place for years to come. Our team brings the tools, experience, and attention to detail needed to evaluate soil conditions and provide the right solution for your home. If a penetrometer test can help improve the outcome of your project, we’ll use it as part of our approach to deliver the strongest, most reliable results possible — all while helping you avoid the cost of repeat repairs.
Schedule your free concrete leveling consultation today and let us help restore the strength and stability of your slab, from the ground up.
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