WELCOME to our FAQ section.  In it we have listed the most informative questions relating to cracked and broken Slabs and Foundations.  If you are interested in more  comprehensive information you should visit our AMCOS FORMS section.  To assist you in your quest for information, we have also included relevant forms to the questions being asked on the right side of this page.  If you click on the form, a readable copy will be displayed in a separate frame.  If you do not find the answer to your question in this list, please submit it by e-mail to ask@amcosgeo.com for a direct answer within 24 hours.

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THE FOLLOWING ARE FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

When was AMCOS Geotechnical (AG) founded?  ANS: Founded in 1978 by Nils Jansma, RGE 434, RCE 27050, Amcos Geo offered a specialized service that was largely restricted to the Geotechnical community.  However, in 1988, AG opened up its services to the general public and has been successfully serving in that regard ever since.

What does AMCOS do?  ANS:  AG provides a top-notch quick, dependable solution to the problem of cracked slabs or foundations, great customer support, and prices that are hard to beat!  Generally, even the most serious problems can be fully repaired within one week.

What is the most commonly asked question about a cracked or broken slab?  ANS:  "IS MY HOUSE SAFE TO LIVE IN?"  The answer generally, under most circumstances, is “YES,"

Do these questions and answers apply to all concrete foundations and slabs? 

What is the difference between an “above grade” foundation and a “slab on grade” foundation? 

Is a broken “above-grade” foundation as serious as a broken “slab-on-grade” foundation? 

When is damage to an “above-grade” foundation considered serious? 

What causes concrete to break? 

What is generally not a cause of cracked or broken concrete in the San Diego area? 

I have been told that "all concrete cracks sooner or later," and so not to worry about it.  Is that true? 

Can cracks due to “concrete shrinkage” be avoided? 

Does reinforcing slabs with steel guarantee that the concrete will not crack? 

Don’t local codes usually require slabs and foundations to be reinforced? 

Why are broken slabs and foundations a cause for concern? 

Is there any good reason why the Damage should be fixed now rather than later? 

How can I tell if I have a serious problem? 

Is there any way I can look at a house and tell if it has a marginally damaged slab or foundation?    

What are some of the symptoms of a house with a significantly damaged slab or foundation. 

Can a slab be cracked and still not have to be repaired? 

Can a foundation be cracked and still not have to be repaired? 

What damage often happens to a house because of a broken slab or foundation? 

What is the primary cause for a slab or foundation to break? 

 After “concrete shrinkage” what other factors cause concrete to break? 

 Why do cracks appear in the walls and ceilings of a house with a broken foundation? 

 Why would a house with a broken foundation experience significantly more damage during an earthquake than a  house whose foundation has been properly repaired?

 What is the best way to repair a broken slab and/or foundation? 

What is meant by a “structural” repair? 

What is an “epoxy” repair? 

 Is an epoxy repair a “structural” repair? 

 Can I trust a contractor or Engineer who says that an observed foundation and/or slab break will not move in the future? 

 How can a contractor or Engineer say with assurance that a broken slab or foundation will not move in the future? 

 Are all guarantees the same? 

 If an Engineering report accompanies a repair, does that mean it has been properly done? 

Is it necessary to remove carpet/tile in order to perform an inspection of a slab-on-grade foundation?

 E-Mail your questions to ask@amcosgeo.com or call (619) 670-0095