Uneven Concrete: Sidewalks, Driveways & Patio Slabs in Sioux Falls, SD

Not all slabs are good candidates for lifting. Concrete that is severely cracked, crumbling or structurally damaged may need to be replaced. During an inspection, a specialist evaluates both the slab and the soil beneath it to determine whether lifting makes sense. 

Concrete often settles unevenly because the soil conditions can differ beneath the same slab. One area may remain supported while another loses soil through settlement, erosion or poor compaction, which causes only part of the sidewalk, driveway or patio to sink. 

Polyurethane foam lifting is built as a long-term repair because it fills voids and restores support beneath the slab. How long the repair lasts also depends on drainage, future soil movement and the condition of the concrete. Correcting water issues around the repaired area can help protect the supporting soil from additional erosion. 

Often, yes. If the soil beneath the concrete keeps settling, washing away or changing with moisture, the slab may continue to move. Water is especially important to watch. If it is working beneath the concrete, it can continue eroding the soil and open up larger voids beneath the slab. Drainage and soil conditions should be reviewed when determining whether the problem is likely to progress. 

The cost comes down to the size of the affected area, how much the concrete has dropped, the condition of the slab and the repair method needed. That’s why there’s no single price for uneven concrete repair. A specialist can evaluate the concrete and the soil conditions, then provide pricing based on the work your property actually needs. When the existing concrete can be lifted, the cost is usually lower than removing the old concrete and installing a completely new slab. 

Uneven concrete can create a trip hazard, above all on sidewalks, walkways, patios and steps. It doesn’t take a large raised edge to catch someone’s foot. It can also create accessibility concerns and potential liability issues in frequently used areas of the property. If concrete has noticeably shifted, having the area evaluated will tell you whether the movement is likely to continue. 

Yes. Uneven concrete can often be leveled without replacement as long as the slab is still structurally sound. Polyurethane foam lifting fills voids beneath the concrete, restores support and brings the settled section back toward level. This can be a more affordable and less disruptive option than replacing the entire section. Replacement may be necessary when the concrete is severely cracked, damaged or otherwise unsuitable for lifting. An inspection can help determine which approach makes sense. 

Uneven concrete is usually caused by changes in the soil beneath the slab. Soil settles or compresses, water washes soil away, and moisture changes can cause some soils to expand and contract. Freeze-thaw cycles can add to that movement. Poor soil compaction, drainage problems, heavy vehicle traffic and occasionally tree roots can also play a role. The concrete itself is usually still in usable condition, the problem is that it’s lost some of the support it originally had underneath it.