Have you noticed your sidewalk or driveway sagging? Unlevel concrete isn’t just ugly, it’s also a tripping hazard. The good news is you don’t have to replace the whole thing! Slab jacking, also known as concrete lifting, is a fast, inexpensive remedy that will have your surfaces restored in no time.
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What Is Slab Jacking?
Slab jacking is a process of restoring sunken concrete slabs to their normal position. This is achieved by injecting a specialized material, like polyurethane foam or sand slurry, beneath the slab. As the material is injected, it expands and raises the concrete, sealing voids and creating a solid base.
Why Does Concrete Sink?
Let’s first talk about why concrete slabs settle before we explain how slab jacking is performed. Here are some of the reasons why concrete slabs settle:
Soil Erosion: Water seeps into the ground below it and creates empty pockets, which settle the concrete.
Poor Compaction: If the ground is not well compacted prior to concrete being poured, it might settle later.
Freeze-Thaw Cycles: In cold climates, the repeated freezing and thawing of water can make the soil expand and shrink, resulting in uneven surfaces.
Heavy Loads: Excessive weight, that is, heavy machinery or heavy vehicles, tend to bear on loose soil, causing it to sink.
How Slab Jacking Works
The process of slab jacking is quick and minimally invasive. Here is how it works:
Drilling Small Holes: Small, precisely positioned holes are drilled by technicians in the sunken concrete.
Injecting the Lifting Material: The lifting material (expanding polyurethane foam or sand mix) is injected underneath the slab.
Raising the Slab: The filler material raises the concrete to its original position and fills gaps.
Sealing and Cleanup: The holes drilled are sealed, and your concrete is now ready to be used within hours.
Benefits of Slab Jacking Over Concrete Replacement
Most homeowners perceive that replacement of the driveway or the sidewalk is the only solution, but slab jacking has several advantages:
Cost-Effective: It is less costly compared to replacement.
Fast & Convenient: Most jobs are completed in just a few hours, with minimal disruption.
Eco-Friendly: It is waste-reducing because it utilizes existing concrete rather than having it demolished and replaced.
Long-Lasting: The lifting material solidifies the ground below, stopping future settlement.
DIY Slab Jacking vs. Hiring Professionals
Some homeowners might be thinking about doing DIY slab jacking, but several factors should be considered before you undertake this project yourself.
DIY Slab Jacking
Pros:
Lowered start-up costs
Can be a fun, hands-on project for experienced DIYers
Cons:
Requires special materials and equipment
Risk of improper lifting, leading to further injury
No warranty or guarantee on work
Labor intensive and strenuous
Hiring Professionals
Pros:
Expertise ensures a correct and secure lift
Access to good-quality materials and tools
More effective and faster process
Includes guarantees and warranties to provide peace of mind
Drawbacks:
More up-front cost than a do-it-yourself, but generally less costly in the long run
For most homeowners, hiring professionals like R.L. Nelson Foundation Solutions is the best choice for long-lasting, reliable results.
Common Misconceptions About Slab Jacking
There are several myths surrounding slab jacking that can make homeowners hesitant to consider it as a solution. Let’s clear up some common misconceptions:
Slab jacking is just a temporary fix.
False! When done correctly, slab jacking provides a long-term solution by stabilizing the soil beneath your concrete.
Slab jacking can’t handle heavy loads.
Not true! Polyurethane foam and other lifting materials used in slab jacking are strong enough to support driveways, patios, and even industrial floors.
It’s cheaper to just replace the concrete.
In most cases, slab jacking is significantly more affordable than full concrete replacement and requires far less labor and materials.
“Slab jacking doesn’t work in cold weather.”
While extreme weather conditions can impact any repair method, modern slab jacking materials are designed to withstand seasonal changes and maintain stability.
Is Slab Jacking Right for You?
If you have sunken concrete on your driveway, sidewalk, patio, or garage floor, slab jacking is likely a great solution. However, if your concrete is severely cracked or deteriorated, replacement might be a better option.
Common Questions About Slab Jacking
1. How long does slab jacking take?
A: Most jobs take just a few hours, and you can use your driveway or sidewalk the same day!
2. How much does slab jacking cost?
A: Costs vary based on the size of the area, but it’s usually 50-75% cheaper than full concrete replacement.
3. Is slab jacking a permanent solution?
A: Yes! When done properly, slab jacking provides long-lasting results by stabilizing the ground beneath your concrete.
Get Your Concrete Fixed Today!
Don’t let uneven concrete be a safety hazard or an eyesore. Slab jacking is a fast, affordable, and reliable solution that can save your driveway and sidewalks without breaking the bank.
Contact R.L. Nelson Foundation Solutions Now!
If you’re ready to restore your driveway, sidewalk, or patio, don’t wait! Contact R.L. Nelson Foundation Solutions, a trusted slab jacking expert, today for a free consultation and get your concrete fixed in no time.
📞 Call us now at 1-800-Foundation to schedule your appointment!
