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 Is Foam Injection Concrete Leveling?

Foam injection concrete leveling is a repair method that uses expanding polyurethane foam to raise sunken concrete slabs. A technician drills small holes in the affected concrete and injects the foam beneath the surface. As the material expands, it fills voids and helps lift the slab back toward its proper position. This process can be used for suitable driveways, sidewalks, patios, garage floors, and other concrete surfaces.

How Does Polyurethane Foam Lift Sunken Concrete?

Polyurethane foam is injected through small holes drilled into the concrete. Once beneath the slab, the foam expands and fills empty spaces in the supporting soil. As it expands, the material creates lifting pressure that can raise the concrete. The technician carefully monitors the movement to help achieve the desired elevation. This method can restore more even surfaces without requiring the entire slab to be removed and replaced.

Is Foam Injection Concrete Leveling Better Than Replacing Concrete?

In many cases, foam injection can be a more affordable and less disruptive alternative to concrete replacement. The process typically requires smaller access holes and less demolition than removing an existing slab. Additionally, the area may be ready for use sooner than it would be after pouring new concrete, depending on the product and project conditions. However, severely cracked or deteriorated concrete may still need replacement. An evaluation can help determine which option is best for your property.