The Pavement: The Heart of the Industrial Warehouse
In a logistics or production warehouse, the floor is not just a surface; it is a work tool. Cracks, unevenness, or subsidence are not only unsightly, but they damage forklifts, reduce operation speed, and can cause workplace accidents.
Common Causes of Slab Pathologies
1. Ground Failure (Settlements)
If the base on which the concrete was poured was not well compacted, the ground settles over time, leaving voids under the slab. When a load passes, the concrete breaks because it has no support.
2. Shrinkage and Lack of Joints
Concrete shrinks as it dries. If expansion and shrinkage joints were not designed or executed correctly, the material will find its own way to break, creating uncontrolled cracks.
3. Usage Overload
It is common to see warehouses designed for a specific load that are then used for heavier shelving or machinery for which the floor was not calculated.
The Expert Diagnosis: Key to Responsibility
Determining the exact cause is vital, especially in rented or newly built warehouses:
- If it is bad execution: The responsibility may lie with the construction company (hidden defects).
- If it is misuse: The responsibility lies with the tenant (post-rental damages).
- If it is a design failure: The responsibility could lie with the engineering or architecture firm.
Technical Solutions
Depending on the diagnosis, solutions vary from:
- Expansive resin injections to reconsolidate the ground without stopping activity.
- Crack stitching with metal staples and epoxy resin.
- Demolition and reconstruction of the affected slabs (in severe cases).
Conclusion
Do not ignore cracks in your warehouse. An early diagnosis saves money and avoids costly operational stops.