Uneven concrete can be more than an eyesore. A raised edge, sunken sidewalk, or uneven driveway can create a trip hazard for homeowners, customers, employees, and visitors.
Over time, concrete can settle when the soil beneath it shifts, washes away, or develops empty spaces. Concrete lifting can help restore these surfaces and create a more level walking area without the need to completely replace the existing slab.
Why Uneven Concrete Creates Trip Hazards
Concrete is designed to provide a stable, level surface. When one section begins to sink or another section shifts, differences in height can develop between slabs.
These changes can happen on sidewalks, driveways, patios, steps, and other concrete surfaces. Even a small change in elevation can become a concern, especially in areas with regular foot traffic.
Water can also contribute to the problem by moving soil from beneath the concrete and creating voids. Freeze-thaw cycles and changes in the ground can further affect the stability of the slab.
If you notice uneven sections or areas that have started to sink, addressing the problem early can help reduce the chance of someone tripping over the damaged surface.
How Concrete Lifting Levels Uneven Surfaces
Concrete lifting works by addressing the space beneath a sunken slab. At The Concrete Lifter, small holes are drilled into the existing concrete before polyurethane material is injected below the surface.
The polyurethane expands into voids beneath the slab and helps raise the concrete back toward its original position. This can restore a more level surface without demolishing and replacing the entire slab.
The injection holes are only about 5/16 of an inch wide, keeping the process minimally invasive. Polyurethane also cures quickly, so the treated area can generally be put back into use soon after the work is completed.
Common Trip Hazards Around Your Property
Uneven concrete can appear in many places around a home or business. Driveways may develop sunken sections, sidewalk slabs can become uneven, and patios or steps can shift as the ground beneath them changes.
These problems can be especially important to address around entrances, walkways, and other areas where people regularly travel.
For property owners in Missouri, USA, keeping concrete surfaces level can help maintain safer and more usable outdoor areas.
Repair Sunken Concrete Before It Gets Worse
Replacing an entire concrete slab isn’t always necessary when only a section has settled. Concrete lifting can provide a faster and less disruptive alternative by working with the existing concrete.
If you have uneven or sunken concrete in Springfield, Missouri, The Concrete Lifter can evaluate the area and determine whether polyurethane concrete lifting is a suitable solution.