Whether it’s your driveway, sidewalk, or patio, sunken concrete can quickly become a big problem. An uneven sidewalk can become a tripping hazard, and a sunken driveway can affect your vehicle’s stability and curb appeal. When faced with these issues, many homeowners wonder if there’s a solution that doesn’t involve replacing the entire concrete slab, which can be expensive.
Fortunately, concrete lifting offers a practical and cost-effective way to restore the level and stability of sunken concrete slabs. Learn more about lifting concrete slabs in Indianapolis.
What Can Commonly Cause Concrete to Sink
Typically, concrete slabs sink when the soil beneath no longer has the strength to properly support the weight of the slab. This can have several causes, including:
Poor Soil Compaction
Improperly compacted soil beneath concrete slabs lacks the necessary density to support the weight over time. This can lead to settling as the soil compresses under the concrete’s load, causing the slab to sink unevenly.
Soil Erosion
Erosion around or beneath concrete slabs can wash away soil particles, creating voids and empty spaces. As the support beneath the concrete diminishes, the slab can sink into these voids, resulting in uneven surfaces.
Leaks
Water leaks from pipes or drainage systems beneath concrete can saturate the surrounding soil. Over time, this saturated soil can erode, reducing support for the concrete slab above. As the soil washes away, the slab may sink or settle into the void left behind by the escaping water.
Freeze-Thaw Cycles
In colder climates, water that seeps into the soil beneath concrete can freeze during winter. When water freezes, it expands, exerting pressure on the surrounding soil and concrete. This cyclical expansion and contraction weaken the soil, leading to the settling or sinking of the concrete slab.
Can You Lift Sunken Concrete Slabs in Indianapolis?
Thankfully, concrete slabs can be lifted back to proper heights. This is often a more cost-effective approach than replacing the entire slab. Despite the lower cost, concrete lifting does not compromise on quality or durability. It effectively restores the integrity of the slab by addressing underlying soil issues and stabilizing the foundation.
Additionally, the process is minimally invasive, causing less disruption to the surrounding area and allowing for quicker use of the repaired surface. Whether it’s a driveway, sidewalk, or patio, concrete lifting offers a reliable solution to restore safety, functionality, and aesthetic appeal to your property.
Concrete lifting services can be effective for all types of concrete, regardless of size or location. Enhance the safety and beauty of your property by scheduling concrete lifting services as soon as you notice any uneven slabs around your property.
Protecting Your Concrete from Future Sinking
Lifting your concrete is the first step towards maintaining safety and beauty around your property. However, addressing the root cause of the initial sinking is important to prevent any issues from occurring to other slabs around your property.
To protect your concrete from future sinking issues, consider these preventive measures:
- Ensure Proper Drainage: Improve drainage around your property to prevent water from pooling near concrete slabs, which can lead to erosion and soil instability.
- Address Plumbing Issues: Regularly inspect and repair any plumbing leaks or drainage problems that could undermine the soil beneath your concrete surfaces.
- Monitor Soil Conditions: Keep an eye on soil moisture levels and compaction, especially after heavy rains or seasonal changes, to prevent soil erosion and settling.
- Prompt Repairs: Address any signs of settlement or sinking early on to prevent the problem from worsening and requiring more extensive repairs later.
Schedule Concrete Lifting Services in Indianapolis
If you’re dealing with sunken concrete around your home, don’t wait to address the issue. Contact Jaco for professional concrete lifting services in Indianapolis. We specialize in lifting and leveling concrete slabs using advanced techniques that restore the integrity of your surfaces efficiently and effectively.
Schedule an appointment with us today.