Common Causes of Ponding Water on Concrete
Contact UsConcrete is known for its durability, but even the toughest surfaces can fall victim to water-related issues. One of the most common problems homeowners face is ponding water—those stubborn puddles that linger on driveways, patios, or walkways long after the rain has stopped. Not only is ponding water an eyesore, but it can also lead to long-term structural damage if not addressed. At Shark’s Concrete in Lynnwood, WA, we’ve seen it all—and we’re here to help you understand why ponding happens and what you can do about it.
Common Causes of Ponding Water on Concrete
How Lynnwood Homeowners Can Fix It For Good
What is Ponding Water?
Ponding water refers to water that collects and remains on the surface of concrete for an extended period of time after precipitation or cleaning. These small pools usually form in low spots where the concrete has settled or wasn’t poured with the proper slope. While a little water might not seem like a big deal at first, prolonged ponding can weaken the concrete over time, encourage mold or mildew growth, and create slip hazards.
Common Causes of Ponding Water on Concrete for Lynnwood Homeowners
Improper Slope or Grading
One of the most common reasons for ponding is an incorrect slope. Concrete should be poured with a slight angle to allow water to naturally drain away. If the slope wasn’t calculated correctly during installation, water will sit in those uneven areas.
Soil Settlement
Lynnwood homeowners often deal with soil that shifts or settles over time, especially after heavy rainfall. As the ground underneath the concrete moves, it can create dips or depressions where water pools.
Tree Root Intrusion
Roots from nearby trees or shrubs can push up against concrete, causing the surface to crack or lift unevenly. These lifted areas can create pockets where water collects.
Heavy Loads and Traffic
Driveways and walkways that experience frequent heavy traffic from vehicles or equipment may wear down unevenly, creating low points that collect water.
Concrete Aging and Wear
Older concrete naturally begins to degrade over time. Small cracks or surface erosion can contribute to poor drainage and eventually result in ponding.
Best Repair Methods for Ponding Water
If you’re noticing water pooling on your concrete surfaces, it’s essential to address the issue before it gets worse. Here are a few common repair methods:
-
Concrete Resurfacing
This involves applying a new layer of concrete or overlay to correct the slope and eliminate low spots. It’s ideal for surfaces with minimal damage. -
Slab Jacking (Mudjacking)
This technique lifts sunken concrete by injecting a grout mixture underneath the slab. It’s a great option for driveways or sidewalks where soil settlement is the culprit. -
Grading and Drainage Adjustments
Sometimes, the best fix involves regrading the surrounding landscape or installing drainage systems to redirect water flow away from your concrete surface. -
Full Replacement
In severe cases, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire concrete slab, especially if the damage is widespread or the concrete is nearing the end of its lifespan.
Contact Shark’s Concrete for Help with Ponding Water on Concrete Surfaces
If ponding water is plaguing your driveway, patio, or walkway, don’t wait for the damage to get worse. Shark’s Concrete, a concrete contractor in Lynnwood, WA, specializes in diagnosing and repairing water-related concrete issues with precision and care. Our skilled team will assess your surface, recommend the best solution, and restore the integrity and function of your concrete.
Call us today to schedule a consultation and see how we can help eliminate ponding water for good!