No matter what you’re building, concrete is often the first step. It provides a sturdy foundation. It’s durable, long-lasting, and low maintenance.
In many cases, you can set concrete and forget it, which is what you want to do in most building projects.
However, concrete doesn’t last forever. Over time, you may notice cracks or sinking in your concrete slabs, causing the surface to become uneven. Many homeowners are unsure what to do next and fear the costly repair bill.
Depending on the extent of the damage, you can either invest in concrete lifting or concrete replacement. Below, we’ll discuss each option, including their pros and cons. At the end, you’ll be able to make an informed decision about which is right for your home.
Concrete Lifting Overview
Concrete lifting is the process of raising sunken concrete to make it more level. Contractors can do that by drilling small holes into existing concrete slabs and injecting materials to raise the slab.
The two most popular forms of concrete lifting are mud jacking and foam jacking. They use similar principles to level the concrete but execute the process with different materials. Mud jacking uses a mixture of cement, sand, water, gravel, and other substances, while foam jacking uses polyurethane foam.
The type of concrete lifting that’s best for you may depend on where you live. Due to hurricanes, high winds, and water damage, concrete lifting in Florida should focus on securing the soil underneath to prevent erosion. Pennsylvania residents may worry more about water seeping into crevices and causing damage as it freezes and thaws.
Google “concrete lifting near me” to get started with your search, and connect with a local expert to learn more about which type of concrete lifting is best for your needs.
Concrete Replacement
Concrete replacement is another option for homeowners experiencing issues with their concrete. If the damage is severe and the surface is cracked, lifting the concrete will not solve the problem. Additionally, if your concrete is old and worn down, it may not have more life. In these cases, you may want to simply replace the concrete.
If the damage is localized in one area, you can replace the single slab. For example, a tree root may have damaged one area. However, if you removed the tree and it is no longer a concern, replacing the impacted slab may be more cost-efficient.
Concrete replacement is different than patching. When you patch your concrete, you add a bandaid to the surface. It will not move and expand with the concrete underneath, so the patch will eventually crack. When you replace your concrete, you remove the existing material and add a new concrete pour.
Pro and Cons
Consider the following pros and cons to decide whether concrete lifting or replacement is right for you.
Cost
There is a significant cost differentiation between new concrete and concrete lifting. Pouring new concrete, even a single slab, is more expensive than integrating concrete lifting. Within concrete lifting, mud jacking can be more affordable than foam jacking. However, it may not have as long a lifespan as foam jacking, requiring you to replace it sooner if the concrete starts to sink again.
Each job is different, and local contractors can provide estimates based on your home, the materials used, and more.
Sustainability
While incredibly popular, concrete is not sustainable. It requires a lot of energy to produce and is difficult to recycle once it reaches the end of its life. If your concrete is in good shape, concrete lifting is a more sustainable option for repair. Instead of using new concrete, you integrate additional material to help raise the existing slab.
Foam jacking is more sustainable than mud jacking, as it requires fewer materials, water, and resources to complete the same job.
Age
When cared for correctly, concrete can last up to 100 years; however, some will experience degradation over time. If your concrete is old, it may be worthwhile to replace it. Concrete lifting will not be as valuable if other damage needs to be addressed.
Additionally, if you plan to renovate your space, you may not want to invest in either. Instead, consider integrating a more temporary fix, like patches or grinding. These options are more cost-efficient and can help close the gap while you wait for your renovation project.
Conclusion
It’s up to you to decide whether concrete lifting or concrete replacement is better for your job. Concrete lifting can be more affordable, while new concrete can have a longer life span. You can do your part to maintain the lifespan of your concrete by keeping it free from damage and debris. If you notice any damage, address it promptly to prevent more costly issues.
