An ever-evolving world requires ever evolving construction methods. One of our most widely used materials is concrete. And as strong as it is, it still has weakness much like man. Preventative concrete practices or exercises, along with maintenance can delay the fatigue process.
             Climate conditions can produce many problems and attack the essential core of a home through its sub-structure. Natural weathering is inevitable as homes age but preventative concrete measures can reduce the wrath of earth, fire, wind, and the onerous element, water. Water can be a contractor's worst enemy at times. Seeping through even the tinniest microscopic pores of wall, foundations, and sidewalks. In essence, the earth, at some point in time, will always dominate what we build. Therefore we must expect the unexpected.
             Every structure has what can be called "danger zones". Residential structures are less likely to structure failure but quite susceptible to sub-structure failure. The sub-structure is made up of these elements; the foundation, including sidewalks and driveways, footings, and basements if applicable. Many coastal and northern region homes by code will have some form of a basement. Other homes have what could be defined as "funny spaces". Crawlspaces are shallow areas of the under belly of houses for piping, electrical, and miscellaneous features. Hopefully, with more advancements coming in construction technology, we can be closer to a super sub-structure home.
             Water penetration plays the leading role in property and home damage. It will some how find a way. Water also will find a way to attack to rigidity or bearing capacity of soil, creating soil erosion. These two go hand in hand. Upon laying the foundation, the ground is assessed for loads. We can only estimate how long the soil will maintain its consistency because earth pressures are also acting on it. The ground water also creates high pressu...