Concrete is all around most properties – driveways, sidewalks, patios, steps, garage floors, and foundations are typically made from concrete. While concrete is a tough material, concrete can sustain damage and wear and tear. Concrete slabs can crack and sink, leaving unsightly and potentially dangerous trip hazards. Fixing them is crucial to prevent accidents and maintain your property’s value.

Several factors affect the strength of concrete, including the quality of raw materials, water/cement ratio, concrete age, temperature, and other environmental factors. Due to poor soil conditions, soil compaction, tree roots, or drainage problems, concrete can begin to settle or sink. With heavy traffic on top, animals burrowing underneath, and erosion, your driveway and sidewalks can end up with cracks, uneven areas, and other problems. 

Concrete Repair Options

In the past, the only way to deal with sunken or uneven concrete was a complete replacement or a process called mudjacking. 

Replacement is the most expensive way to deal with concrete issues. The average cost of a new concrete driveway is around $4,000, depending on the size of the project. Replacing a driveway involves a lot of labor and heavy equipment. The old concrete must be removed and hauled away. Concrete replacement projects can take several days to complete. It is generally recommended that you wait at least a week or more before driving on a new concrete surface with a passenger vehicle. 

Mudjacking uses sand, cement, and other materials to make a mixture known as slurry. This mixture is pumped into holes drilled into the concrete to raise and level it. Mudjacking works best for concrete in good condition but no longer level. It won’t work for slabs that are heavy or load-bearing. The slurry mixture used is not waterproof and can quickly erode over time if water drains along the sides and underneath the concrete slab. 

Mudjacking is invasive, uses heavier materials and equipment, and requires more cleanup. Although mudjacking is the traditional and less expensive concrete repair method, a lower initial cost doesn’t always mean a better value. Mudjacking repairs are rarely long-lasting, and the process often needs to be repeated in a few years. Many property owners are turning to polyurethane foam for long-lasting concrete lifting repairs.

How Does Concrete Lifting Work?

Polyurethane foam injection works by drilling small holes into the sinking concrete slab and injecting a polyurethane foam solution. The foam expands deep into the ground, stabilizing loose soils, and gently raises the concrete. Once the slab is level, the access points are patched, and the job is complete. No heavy equipment or excavation is required. 

The Benefits of Polyurethane Foam

Quick

The injection process is minimally invasive, and most repairs only take a few hours, depending on the size and complexity of the project. Polyurethane cures quickly, and you can walk or drive on repaired areas within 30 minutes after the installation is complete.

Long-Lasting

Polyurethane foam does not retain moisture and will not erode when water is present. It does not degrade due to extreme temperature changes. Because it expands and fills the gaps and cracks and lifts the slab, you’ll have a strong, level concrete slab for years to come. 

Versatile

Polyurethane foam is used around exteriors to lift sidewalks, driveways, patios, pool decks, porches, and steps. Polyurethane foam can also repair garage floors and other interior concrete slabs. Almost any sinking or settling concrete can be repaired using polyurethane foam. 

Cost-Effective

Concrete lifting using polyurethane is far less expensive than tearing out and replacing concrete surfaces. This advanced technology helps save time and money, extends the life of your existing concrete, all with minimal disruption to your property. No heavy equipment is needed, and one or two crew members can complete most repairs in a few hours.  

Environmentally Friendly

Polyurethane foam is an eco-friendly option. Once the foam sets, it will not react with anything in the ground around it. The foam can’t leach into the soil or water. The longevity of polyurethane foam makes it less likely that property owners will have to repeat the repair process, helping conserve resources. 

Why Choose RT Construction for Concrete Lifting Repairs?

RT Construction has partnered with the Alchemy-Spetec network to protect residential and commercial properties from loss and damage due to sinking concrete. We use Alchemy-Spetec polyurethane resin and expanding polyurethane foam for concrete repair projects. These products seal cracks and defects, fill gaps, and stabilize the soil. Most repairs can be completed in less than a day.

RT Construction has completed residential and commercial projects in Missouri, Illinois, and Kansas, all with the same high level of precision and quality. With over 25 years of experience, we take pride in our work, and your satisfaction is guaranteed. We are licensed, insured, and bonded for your protection. Call us at 636-317-5636 to schedule an inspection and free estimate.

Loved this? Spread the word


Related posts

Polyjacking vs Mudjacking: What’s the Difference and Which is Best for Your Lake of the Ozarks Property?

Read More

Is a Four-Season Sunroom Worth The Investment?

Read More