Have you ever tripped on your sidewalk or noticed your patio looking a little off-kilter? Uneven concrete isn’t just an eyesore it can be a safety hazard and a sign of underlying foundation issues. Fortunately, there’s a modern, efficient fix that doesn’t involve demolition or days of downtime. It’s called concrete leveling, and it's changing the way homeowners and businesses restore their surfaces.
Why Does Concrete Sink in the First Place?
Before diving into solutions, it helps to understand the problem. Concrete can sink or become uneven for several reasons:
Soil Washout: Water from heavy rains or poor drainage can wash away the soil beneath the concrete slab, leaving empty spaces.
Poor Compaction: When builders don’t properly compact the soil before pouring the slab, it can settle over time.
Tree Roots: Expanding roots can lift parts of the concrete while leaving other sections untouched.
Freeze-Thaw Cycles: In colder climates, water in the soil freezes and expands, then thaws and contracts, causing the slab to shift.
Whatever the reason, the result is the same tilted, cracked, or sunken concrete that’s not only unsightly but potentially dangerous.
Common Problem Areas Around the Home
Concrete leveling is often associated with sidewalks and driveways, but those aren’t the only places you might need it. Here are some common trouble spots:
Driveways: Cracked or tilted sections can damage vehicles and pose tripping risks.
Patios: Uneven surfaces make for unstable furniture and poor drainage.
Garage Floors: Sunken spots can affect the structure of shelving, vehicles, and stored items.
Pool Decks: Safety around water is essential no one wants uneven ground near a slippery pool edge.
Walkways: If the path to your front door isn’t smooth, it can be a liability for guests or delivery personnel.
The Modern Fix: What Is Concrete Leveling?
Concrete leveling, sometimes referred to as polyjacking or foam jacking, involves lifting and leveling the existing concrete slab rather than replacing it. Here's how it works:
Small Holes Are Drilled: Technicians drill small, strategically placed holes into the sunken slab.
Polyurethane Foam Is Injected: A lightweight, expanding foam is pumped under the slab. As it expands, it fills the voids in the soil and gently lifts the concrete back to its original level.
Real-Time Adjustments: The process is monitored in real-time, allowing technicians to control the lift precisely.
Holes Are Sealed: Once the slab is level, the injection holes are patched with a durable material.
Why Homeowners and Businesses Prefer Polyjacking
Unlike old-school methods like mudjacking or full slab replacement, polyjacking offers a number of benefits:
Quick Turnaround: Most jobs are completed in just a few hours.
Minimal Disruption: You can walk or drive on the surface shortly after the process is finished.
Cost-Effective: Because you’re fixing what you already have, it’s far more affordable than tearing out and replacing concrete.
Long-Lasting: The polyurethane foam is water-resistant and won’t break down over time.
Eco-Friendly: Polyjacking creates less waste and uses fewer materials than replacement.
The Polyjacking Process: Step by Step
Here’s a closer look at what to expect if you schedule a polyjacking appointment:
Consultation and Inspection
A professional evaluates the site, listens to your concerns, and identifies the problem areas.
Planning and Marking
The crew marks out the holes and makes sure any underground utilities are accounted for.
Drilling and Injection
The small holes are drilled, and foam is injected underneath the slab. The expanding foam does the heavy lifting.
Monitoring and Adjustments
Technicians keep an eye on the elevation, ensuring the lift is smooth and even.
Patching and Clean-Up
The holes are sealed, and the worksite is left neat and clean.
Is Polyjacking Right for You?
While polyjacking is ideal for many residential and commercial settings, it may not be the right solution for every situation. For instance, if the concrete is too severely cracked or broken, replacement might be a better option. However, for most cases of sunken or uneven slabs, concrete leveling is the preferred choice.
If you notice:
Pooling water near your foundation
Cracks forming along joints
A trip hazard on your walkway or driveway
Doors or windows sticking
…it might be time to call in the pros.
Maintenance Tips After Leveling
Once your concrete has been leveled, you’ll want to keep it that way. Here are a few quick tips:
Improve Drainage: Make sure downspouts direct water away from the foundation.
Check for Soil Erosion: Keep an eye on areas where soil might wash away and fill them as needed.
Seal the Surface: Applying a concrete sealant helps prevent water infiltration.
Trim Back Trees: Manage roots that could interfere with your slab’s stability.