Standing water on a concrete slab isn’t just a small problem. It can point to bigger drainage issues and may lead to serious damage like mold growth, foundation cracks, or slippery surfaces that could cause someone to fall. Whether it’s your driveway, patio, basement floor, or sidewalk, it’s important to fix standing water properly and without delay.
Let’s look at what causes water to pool on concrete and how you can fix it.
Why Does Water Collect on Concrete?
Before you fix the problem, it’s important to understand what’s causing it. Here are the most common reasons water collects on concrete:
Bad Slope or Grading: If your concrete doesn’t tilt away from your house or structure, water won’t drain properly.
Soil Settlement: Over time, the ground under your slab can shift or sink, causing the concrete to dip and create puddles.
Surface Damage: Cracks, erosion, or worn-out spots in old concrete can collect water.
Clogged Drainage: Blocked gutters, downspouts, or French drains can cause water to sit on concrete instead of flowing away.
Check How Bad the Water Problem Is
Not every puddle is a big deal. If water dries up quickly after rain, you might not need to worry. But if it stays for hours or even days, it can weaken your concrete or seep into the foundation.
Watch how long the water remains on the surface. Use a level or a straight board to check if the slab has enough slope. Experts recommend at least ¼ inch of slope per foot for proper drainage.
If you’re unsure why water is pooling, reach out to a concrete specialist. Companies like Eden Sidewalk Contractors can inspect your sidewalk, walkway, or other concrete surfaces to find the root cause before suggesting the best solution.
How to Fix Standing Water on a Concrete Slab
Here are the most common ways to fix water pooling on concrete:
Patch the Low Spots
If the problem is a small dip in the surface, you can use a concrete re-surfacer or self-leveling compound. Clean the area first, then apply the patching material following the instructions on the label. Make sure to smooth the edges so it blends with the rest of the surface.
This fix works best for minor wear and tear. If the dip is large or deep, you might need a more serious repair.
Install a French or Trench Drain
If the issue is too much water around the slab, adding a drainage system might help.
A French drain is a pipe placed in a gravel-filled trench. It collects and redirects water away from the slab.
A trench drain is a surface-level channel that catches runoff water and sends it to a drain outlet.
These systems work well around patios, sidewalks, and driveways, especially if re-sloping the concrete isn’t an option.
Re-Slope or Re-Pour the Slab
If your slab was poured incorrectly or has shifted too much, the best fix might be to remove and re-pour the concrete. You can also add a new sloped layer on top of the old one, depending on the situation.
This kind of work is best done by professionals. Getting the slope right and making sure the base is solid is key to long-term success.
Grind Down High Spots
Sometimes, it’s not a low spot but a high spot that’s the problem. If a raised section of concrete is stopping water from draining, concrete grinding can help. Contractors use special machines to smooth out high points, allowing water to flow naturally.
This method is best for small problems. It won’t help if your slab has deep dips or big drainage issues.
Final Thoughts
Water that sits on concrete for too long can lead to big headaches. It’s better to fix the issue early whether by patching a low spot, improving drainage, or hiring pros to re-pour the slab.
With the help of expert team you can fix the problem at the source and protect your concrete for years to come.
