Sunken and Uneven Concrete Problems
Concrete driveways, patios, and walkways sink when the soil beneath them settles or erodes. Common in Texas due to:
- Expansive clay soils shrinking during droughts
- Poor soil compaction during original construction
- Water erosion washing away soil beneath concrete
- Tree roots disrupting soil beneath slabs
- Plumbing leaks undermining concrete sections
The result: trip hazards, water pooling, drainage problems, and an unsightly appearance that reduces property value.
Polyurethane Foam Lifting (PolyLevel)
Modern concrete leveling uses expanding polyurethane foam injected beneath sunken slabs. This method offers major advantages over traditional mudjacking:
Polyurethane Foam Benefits
- • Cures in 15 minutes (immediate use)
- • Lightweight—won't overload soil
- • Tiny 5/8" injection holes
- • Precise control over lift amount
- • Waterproof and won't wash out
- • Lasts decades without settling
Traditional Mudjacking
- • 24-48 hour cure time
- • Heavy cement mixture adds weight
- • Large 1-2" holes required
- • Less precise lifting
- • Can erode over time
- • May sink again within years
When to Level vs Replace Concrete
Concrete leveling is ideal when the slab itself is in good condition—it's just sunken. Consider leveling when:
- Slab has settled but isn't severely cracked
- Surface is in decent condition (no major spalling)
- Settlement is 4 inches or less
- No structural issues with the slab itself
Replacement is necessary when:
- Concrete is severely cracked or crumbling
- Surface has deteriorated beyond repair
- Slab was poured too thin originally
- Settlement exceeds 6 inches
Leveling typically costs 50-70% less than replacement and takes hours instead of days.
Typical Concrete Leveling Projects
Sunken Driveway Approach
The section of driveway near the garage often sinks 2-3 inches, creating a lip that scrapes vehicles. Foam lifting restores a smooth transition.
Typical cost: $800-1,500
Patio Pooling Water
Patio slabs settle away from the house, creating a reverse slope that traps water against the foundation. Leveling corrects drainage and prevents foundation damage.
Typical cost: $1,200-2,500
Walkway Trip Hazards
Sidewalk sections settle unevenly, creating 1-2 inch lips that are serious trip hazards. Lifting eliminates the hazard and liability.
Typical cost: $500-1,200
Pool Deck Settlement
Concrete around pools settles from water exposure and poor compaction. Leveling prevents further damage and improves appearance.
Typical cost: $1,500-3,500
Get Your Free Concrete Leveling Estimate
We'll assess your sunken concrete, explain the leveling process, and provide an upfront price quote with no surprises.