Concrete is great stuff! It is used almost everywhere for sidewalks, patios, driveways, steps and much more. But, just like most things, concrete has its limitations. One of the biggest problems is that it can and frequently does settle. When concrete sinks, a variety of other problems can result. Some of the more common issues associated with settled concrete are tripping hazards and drainage problems.

Dangerous Trip Hazards

Most all concrete will crack over time. Shrinkage cracks are normal, and are not typically cause for alarm. However, sometimes concrete will crack due to stress caused by settlement. When this happens, sections of the concrete can drop while adjacent areas remain in place. This can cause uneven surfaces resulting in dangerous trip hazards.

The good news is that settled areas can usually be raised back into place thereby eliminating the trip hazard. Once the slabs are realigned, the crack can be filled with a flexible sealant to prevent water from entering which helps prevent ongoing erosion problems.

Sunken Concrete and Drainage

When concrete sinks, it may settle in a way that changes the way water drains. Patios are notorious for sinking along the edge of homes. When they settle far enough, rainwater can drain toward the home rather than away from it. Concrete structures that pitch water toward the foundation is never a good situation. Driveways, patios and sidewalks should be pitched away from buildings whenever possible.

Raising Concrete with Modern Technology  

Contractors have been providing concrete raising services for a very long time. Like most things, modern technology enables us to do things quicker, cheaper, and with better results as compared to old methods. Concrete lifting is no exception; we now have modern concrete raising! Using polyurethane foam and sophisticated equipment, settled concrete can now be lifted back into place quickly and economically. Better yet, long lasting results are obtained without the use of large, messy, noisy trucks or the invasive methods associated with “mud jacking”.

Do You Have Sunken Concrete?

If you have concrete that has settled, chances are that it can be raised back to its original position. Here are some tips that can help you get on the right path:

1. Avoid mud jacking quotes by insisting on the use of polyurethane foam lifting materials.
2. Get a minimum of three quotes.
3. If possible, meet the estimator so that you can get a feel for the company.
4. Make sure the company you choose to work with is fully insured.
5. Look for online reviews to see what their customers are saying.
6. Be wary of anyone making you feel pressured to make a decision.

Want to learn more?

If you would like to learn more about polyurethane concrete lifting and see examples of actual projects, please check out Acme Concrete Raising & Repair.