Sunken Concrete Solutions: Lifting, Leveling, and Repairs
Concrete is strong and durable, but it can still settle and sink over time. Driveways, sidewalks, patios, and commercial pads across Alberta often experience uneven surfaces caused by shifting soil, water infiltration, or freeze thaw cycles. These problems create trip hazards, drainage issues, and damage that worsens if left untreated. The good news is that there are effective solutions to lift and level sunken concrete without always resorting to full replacement.
What Causes Concrete to Sink?
Sunken concrete is usually the result of soil instability beneath the slab. Common causes include:
Soil erosion from rain or irrigation washing away support beneath the concrete
Poor soil compaction during construction leading to settling over time
Water infiltration softening the ground and creating voids
Freeze thaw cycles in Alberta that expand and contract the soil beneath slabs
When the ground shifts or erodes, concrete loses its support and begins to sink or crack.
Mudjacking: Traditional Lifting Method
Mudjacking is one of the most established methods for lifting concrete. A slurry mixture of water, soil, and cement is pumped beneath the slab through small drilled holes. The pressure fills voids and raises the slab back to level. Mudjacking is cost-effective and works well for sidewalks, driveways, and patios. However, it can add weight to the soil and may not be as durable in areas with ongoing erosion.
Polyurethane Foam Injection: Modern Repair Option
Polyurethane foam injection has become a popular alternative to mudjacking. This method involves injecting lightweight expanding foam beneath the slab through small holes. The foam fills voids, lifts the slab, and hardens quickly, often allowing surfaces to be used within hours. Benefits include less disruption, longer lifespan, and resistance to water infiltration. Foam injection is ideal for residential driveways, walkways, and commercial pads where durability and minimal downtime are priorities.
Slab Replacement for Severe Damage
In some cases, lifting is not possible and slab replacement is required. Replacement involves removing the damaged concrete and pouring a new slab on properly prepared soil. While more expensive than mudjacking or foam injection, replacement provides a long-term solution for severely cracked, crumbling, or heavily sunken surfaces. It is often the best option when slabs have structural damage that repairs cannot address.
Comparing Costs and Longevity of Each Solution
Each repair method has its own cost and expected lifespan:
Mudjacking: affordable option, usually lasting 5 to 10 years depending on soil conditions
Polyurethane foam injection: higher upfront cost but typically lasts 10 to 15 years with excellent stability
Slab replacement: most expensive but provides the longest service life when done correctly
Choosing the right solution depends on the severity of damage, budget, and long-term goals for the property.
Professional Concrete Repair Services in Alberta with Aurum Concrete
Sunken concrete can create safety hazards and costly damage if ignored, but professional repair services provide reliable solutions. Aurum Concrete offers mudjacking, polyurethane foam injection, and full slab replacement tailored to Alberta’s challenging climate. Our team assesses the cause of settlement and recommends the best method for lasting results. Protect your property with expert concrete repair from Aurum Concrete, and contact us through the Contact page to schedule an inspection and restore your surfaces.
