In this case, the soil was extremely reactive, and the concrete paving was laid directly on top of fill soil. In extremely reactive soils, if the concrete paving isn’t anchored to the ground adequately, a separation gap is likely to develop over time. Placing veranda or carport posts directly on concrete paving is also another reason the posts are being affected by the concrete paving movement since they aren’t supported by a footing system running into the stiff soil, designed for the reactivity of the soil. To address these problems, each post should have its own footing. Additionally, the concrete paving should include a perimeter beam to anchor the paving into the ground. This beam can also be connected to the external concrete beam in slab on ground footing systems (waffle or stiffened raft slab). This connection creates a unified structure that prevents lateral movements and the formation of gaps between the paving and the external wall. Over time, these gaps can become serious issues as rainwater seeps in, altering the moisture conditions of the soil beneath the footing, which can lead to cracks and structural movement.

Understanding and mitigating these risks is key to designing & building durable structures. I'd be keen to learn about any additional strategies you might employ in your projects to prevent these kinds of structural problems.

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