If you have noticed sunken concrete on your property, don’t panic! It is not uncommon to see settling or sinking in concrete surfaces over time due to soil erosion or compaction. Whether it’s your driveway, patio, or sidewalk, this can be both aesthetically unappealing and hazardous.
However, lifting sunken concrete can be DIY-friendly if you know the right steps. In this blog post, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to lift sunken concrete without having to replace the entire slab.
Can You Lift Sunken Concrete?
If you have sunken concrete on your property, you’re likely left wondering what to do next. Over time, concrete can begin to sink as the soil underneath shifts and settles, creating an uneven surface that looks unsightly and can pose a safety hazard. The good news is that sunken concrete can be lifted.
Using concrete leveling, a professional contractor can inject a special foam compound beneath the concrete, lifting it back into place. This innovative technique is an affordable way to restore the appearance and functionality of your concrete surfaces, so don’t hesitate to give it a try.
Why Should You Lift Sunken Concrete?
Sunken concrete may not seem like a big deal, but it can cause many costly problems. From tripping hazards to water damage, sunken concrete can lead to serious structural issues down the line. Plus, it’s just plain unattractive. Luckily, there’s an easy solution: concrete lifting. By lifting sunken concrete, you can restore your property’s curb appeal and prevent any potential hazards.
Plus, it’s a much more cost-effective solution than replacing the entire slab. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to spruce up your property or a business owner in need of repairs, concrete lifting is the way to go.
How to Lift Sunken Concrete Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Identify the Problem Areas
Before you begin the process of lifting sunken concrete, you need to determine where the problem areas are located. Walk around your property and inspect all your concrete surfaces. In the areas where there is sinking or settling, use a measuring tape and measure the depth of the indentations. Note this measurement as it will be needed later.
Step 2: Prepare the Materials
You will need some materials to lift the sunken concrete, including a concrete patching compound, a mixing bucket or paddle, and a caulking gun. Additionally, you will need high-density polyurethane foam, which you can purchase from your local hardware store, online retailers, or expert companies.
Step 3: Drill the Injection Holes
Using a masonry drill bit, drill injection holes evenly along the sunken area. The spacing of the injection holes should be at least 18 inches apart. The depth of the holes should vary depending on the depth of the sunken area, usually 2-4 inches. After drilling the holes, remove any debris or dust from them, as it can affect the flow of the foam.
Step 4: Inject the Foam
Using the caulking gun and polyurethane foam, fill each hole with enough foam to raise the concrete slab. As you inject the foam, be mindful of the pressure you apply to each hole. Excessive pressure can cause the foam to overflow, creating a mess and possibly damaging nearby surfaces. Once each hole is filled with foam, the slab will begin to lift.
Step 5: Patch the Holes and Level the Surface
After the concrete is lifted, use the measuring tape to ensure that the area is level. Once satisfied with the level, patch the injection holes with the concrete patching compound, one hole at a time. Spread a thin layer of the compound over each hole and leave it to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 6: Smooth out The Surface
Using a trowel, spread a thin layer of concrete patching compound over the entire sunken area. This will help fill in any cracks or divots created during the lifting process. Use gentle strokes to create an even and smooth surface. Allow it to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions before proceeding.
Step 7: Clean up The Area
Once all the steps are completed, it’s time to clean up the area. This includes removing debris or dust created during the process and properly discarding used materials. After this is done, you can admire your newly lifted concrete slab!
That’s it! You’ve now learned how to lift sunken concrete. It’s an easy process that can make a big difference in your property’s aesthetic. With this guide and the right materials, you can easily restore any sunken areas in no time!
5 Considerations Things When You Need to Lift Sunken Concrete
- First, you need to assess the situation and determine if lifting the sunken concrete is feasible. There are a few factors that you need to take into account, such as the size and weight of the concrete, as well as the condition of the ground around it. If the ground is too unstable, then lifting the concrete could cause even more damage.
- Once you’ve determined that lifting the sunken concrete is feasible, you need to figure out how you’re going to do it. There are a few different methods that can be used, but each one has its own advantages and disadvantages. You’ll need to decide which method suits your situation best.
- Once you’ve chosen a method for lifting the sunken concrete, you must gather all the necessary supplies. This will likely include things like jacks, pry bars, and shovels. Make sure you have everything you need before you start so that you don’t run into any problems in the middle of the project.
- Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to start lifting the sunken concrete. This is usually a slow and difficult process, so be patient and take your time. If you rush it, you could end up causing even more damage.
- Once you’ve successfully lifted the sunken concrete, you need to take steps to prevent it from sinking again in the future. This may involve compacting the soil around it or installing some type of drainage system. Whatever you do, make sure that you take action so that you don’t have to go through this process again in the future.
Lifting sunken concrete can be a difficult and time-consuming task, but with the right preparation and precautions, you can get it done safely and effectively. Just make sure to take your time and follow these five considerations when lifting sunken concrete, and you’ll be back enjoying your outdoor space in no time!
5 Benefits of Lift Sunken Concrete
1. Aesthetics
One of the primary benefits of lifting sunken concrete is that it can improve the aesthetics of your home or business. If you have sunken concrete, it can make your property look unkempt and unprofessional. By having the concrete lifted, you can ensure that your property looks its best.
2. Safety
Another benefit of lifting sunken concrete is that it can improve safety. If you have sunken concrete on your property, it can create trip hazards. By lifting the concrete, you can help prevent accidents and injuries.
3. Durability
Lift sunken concrete is also more durable than traditional concrete repair methods. When the concrete is lifted, it will be under less stress, which will help prolong its lifespan.
4. Value
Another benefit of lifting sunken concrete is that it can increase the value of your property. If you have sunken concrete, it can make your property less desirable to potential buyers. By having the concrete lifted, you can make your property more attractive to buyers and increase its value.
5. Environmentally Friendly
Lift sunken concrete is also more environmentally friendly than traditional repair methods. When you have the concrete lifted, there is no need to use heavy machinery or chemicals, which can harm the environment.
Some Common Mistakes People Make When Trying to Lift Sunken Concrete
Sunken concrete can be a nuisance, but fixing it is not as easy as it seems. While plenty of DIY solutions are available, it’s important to know that people make common mistakes when trying to lift sunken concrete. One of the biggest mistakes is not addressing the underlying issue causing the sinking in the first place.
Simply adding more concrete to the area without addressing the soil or drainage problem will only lead to more sinking in the future. Additionally, overestimating the amount of material needed or using the wrong kind of material can also lead to a failed attempt at repairing sunken concrete. It’s important to research and consult a professional to avoid these mistakes and ensure a successful repair.
Conclusion
Lifting sunken concrete can seem daunting at first, but following the above steps can be a straightforward process. However, remember to take precautions, as working with chemicals and concrete can be hazardous. Moreover, if you are unsure of doing it yourself or have a more extensive sunken concrete area, it’s always best to get professional assistance from a reputable company with experienced specialists. Lifting sunken concrete can extend the lifespan of your concrete surfaces, improve aesthetics, and prevent safety hazards. Thanks for reading our post about how to lift sunken concrete.
