4 Causes of Uneven Sidewalks, Driveways, and Patios

Tripping on uneven concrete is dangerous, but not uncommon as many homes have settled concrete. Having uneven sidewalks, driveways, or patios is not something you have to live with!

There are several reasons concrete can sink or become uneven.

Underlying Soil

• All types of soils have different load bearing capacities, which means they handle weight differently. Poor soil quality and compaction can lead to settling over time. When the soil settles it creates a void under the concrete. This void allows the heavy concrete slab to sink.

Freeze and Thaw Cycles

• This is exactly what it sounds like. The ground expands as it freezes and shrinks as it loses moisture content. These cycles can cause subsequent changes in the soil and potential soil erosion.

Drainage

• When surface water is directed toward sidewalks or driveways, it can wash out the soil underneath. Just like the reasons above, this can lead to voids underneath the concrete slab which allows it to sink where the void is.

Rodents

• Like it or not, there are animals that burrow. While this is the least common factor in sunken concrete it can still be a factor. Animals like chipmunks, mice, and skunks are ground- burrowing rodents. Sometimes they choose to burrow underneath concrete such as a sidewalk, driveway, or porch. As they burrow, they leave tunnels which plays a part in erosion as it creates a void. 

Polyurethane Concrete Raising is cost effective, quick, and less invasive than full concrete replacement. The settled concrete is repaired by injecting material under the slabs to lift it back into place. First, holes the size of a dime are drilled in the surface of the concrete. After the holes are drilled, plastic ports are inserted into the holes and specialized equipment is used to inject an expanding polyurethane structural foam through the ports under the concrete. This foam expands and fills all the voids that caused the concrete to sink and slowly lifts the settled concrete. Once the concrete is restored to the proper elevation, the ports are removed, and the holes are patched. The affected area can be immediately put back into service, without the aggravation and downtime of multiple days needed for concrete replacement. You can read more about Concrete Raising here.

U.S. Waterproofing & Foundation Repair doesn’t just keep basements dry; we also provide preventative measures to keep basements from seeping in the first place. By using our simple and effective Polyurethane Concrete Raising service, you can lift your concrete easily and not have to lift a finger! Schedule your free consultation with one of our knowledgeable and experienced Advisors today!