What is concrete leveling and how does it fix sunken concrete?

Concrete leveling is a process used to raise concrete that has settled or become uneven. Over time, soil underneath a concrete slab can shift, compact, or wash away. When that happens, the slab can sink into the empty space below it.

Instead of removing the entire slab, concrete leveling can raise the existing concrete back toward its original position. Depending on the project, specialized materials can be used to fill voids and provide support beneath the slab. This can be an effective solution for sunken driveways, sidewalks, patios, porches, pool decks, and other concrete surfaces.

How much does concrete leveling cost compared to replacing concrete?

The cost of concrete leveling depends on several factors, including the size of the slab, how far it has settled, and the condition of the concrete. However, leveling can often be significantly less expensive than removing and replacing an entire concrete surface.

With replacement, you are paying for demolition, removal, disposal, new materials, labor, and installation. Concrete leveling allows us to work with the existing slab when the concrete is still in suitable condition.

Therefore, it is worth getting a concrete leveling estimate before automatically deciding that replacement is necessary.

Can you level a sunken driveway without replacing the concrete?

Yes. In many situations, a sunken driveway can be leveled without removing the existing concrete.

Concrete can settle when the soil beneath it moves, compacts, or loses material because of water and erosion. When the slab itself is still in good enough condition, leveling may allow us to raise it rather than tear it out.

This can save time, reduce the amount of demolition required, and potentially save you money. However, every driveway is different. We recommend having the concrete evaluated so we can determine whether leveling or replacement makes the most sense.

What causes concrete driveways, sidewalks, patios, and porches to sink?

Several things can cause concrete to settle. One of the most common problems is soil movement beneath the slab. Soil can compact naturally over time, leaving less support underneath the concrete.

Water can also contribute to settling. Poor drainage, heavy rain, or runoff may wash soil away and create empty spaces beneath a concrete slab.

Additionally, improperly prepared soil can settle after the original concrete was installed. Tree roots, erosion, and normal changes in the ground can also contribute.

Once the support underneath the concrete changes, the slab can begin to sink or become uneven.

What are push piers and how do they repair a foundation?

Push piers are heavy-duty steel supports installed beneath a settling foundation. They are hydraulically pushed deep into the ground until they reach stable, load-bearing soil or bedrock. A steel bracket connects the pier to the foundation footing. This transfers the weight of the home away from unstable soil and onto stronger ground. In some situations, hydraulic equipment can also be used to carefully lift a settled portion of the foundation.

How do I know if my home needs foundation repair with push piers?

Several warning signs can indicate foundation settlement. You may notice cracks in your foundation walls, brick cracks, drywall cracks, uneven floors, gaps around windows or doors, or doors and windows that suddenly stick. A leaning chimney or noticeable changes in the level of your floors can also be a warning sign. Not every foundation problem requires push piers, so a professional evaluation is important before deciding on a repair method.

Can push piers stop my foundation from settling further?

Yes. The purpose of push piers is to stabilize a settling foundation by transferring structural loads through unstable or weak soils to deeper, more stable bearing material. Once properly installed, the piers provide a new support point for the foundation. However, the correct repair depends on why the foundation is moving and the conditions beneath your property.

Can push piers actually lift a sinking foundation?

In some cases, yes. Push piers can be used not only to stabilize a settling foundation but also to attempt to raise a portion of the foundation closer to its original position. The amount of lifting possible depends on the extent of settlement, the condition of the foundation and how the structure responds during the repair. A professional should determine whether lifting is appropriate for your home.