Top 5 Causes of Sunken Concrete in Edmonton and How to Fix Them
As homeowners in the Edmonton area know all too well, concrete issues can arise unexpectedly, leading to unsightly and potentially hazardous conditions around your property. Sunken driveways and uneven sidewalks can not only diminish your home’s curb appeal but also pose risks to family and visitors alike. That’s why we at TCB Foam Solutions want to shed light on the top five causes of sunken concrete and provide you with effective solutions, including our specialized foam jacking services.
1. Freeze-Thaw Cycles
Edmonton’s harsh winters can create freeze-thaw cycles that cause concrete to crack and settle. When water seeps into those little cracks and freezes, it expands, widening the crack. As the ice melts and the water seeps back out, the concrete can lose its supporting structure, leading to sinking. This cyclical process takes a toll on your concrete, and it’s common to see sunken areas in driveways and sidewalks as a result.
Solution: Addressing freeze-thaw damage might require a comprehensive fix, but employing foam jacking can help restore your concrete to its original level swiftly and efficiently.
2. Water Erosion
With Edmonton experiencing its fair share of rain and melting snow, water erosion can cause soil beneath your concrete to wash away. Over time, this undermines the support for your concrete slabs, making them sink. If you find your driveway or patio is uneven, it’s likely that water erosion could be a culprit.
Solution: Repairing water erosion issues often requires both immediate and long-term solutions. Foam jacking can elevate your sinking concrete while the installation of proper drainage systems can reduce future water issues.
3. Soil Erosion
The soil composition in and around Edmonton can also lead to sinking concrete. Alberta’s unique geology means that sometimes the ground can shift or settle. As the moisture levels in the soil change—either too much water or too little—soil can erode or compact unevenly, causing slab movement.
Solution: Just like with water erosion, foam jacking is a fantastic option for lifting and leveling sunken concrete. By injecting high-density polyurethane foam into the gaps beneath your concrete, we can stabilize and raise the surface without having to replace the slabs.
4. Poor Installation
Sometimes, the initial installation of concrete can be at fault. If your driveway or sidewalk was not poured properly, or if the subgrade wasn’t compacted correctly, you may notice signs of sinking sooner rather than later. This can be particularly true in newly built neighborhoods with ongoing construction impacts.
Solution: It may be necessary to consult with a concrete professional to assess the situation properly. However, foam jacking can effectively level poorly installed concrete slabs as part of your larger rectification solution.
5. Tree Roots
Trees are beautiful, adding shade and curb appeal to your property, but their roots can wreak havoc on your concrete surfaces. Over time, roots can grow beneath concrete slabs, lifting them or causing cracking and settlement.
Solution: If you suspect roots are causing your concrete issues, it’s best to consult an arborist before attempting any repairs. Once the source of the issue is addressed, our foam jacking solution can provide the level surface you’ve been seeking.
Why Choose Foam Jacking?
TCB Foam Solutions believes in the effectiveness of foam jacking as one of the best concrete repair solutions Edmonton has to offer. It’s a quick and cost-effective way to lift and level concrete with minimal disruption to your yard or driveway. Compared to traditional methods like mud jacking, foam jacking is lighter, requires fewer injections, and cures quickly—oftentimes within minutes!
Ready to Address Your Sunken Concrete Issues?
If your driveway or sidewalk is exhibiting signs of sinking, don’t wait until it becomes a bigger problem. Reach out to us at TCB Foam Solutions to learn more about our concrete repair solutions specifically tailored for residents in Edmonton and surrounding areas, including St. Albert, Sherwood Park, and Spruce Grove.
Don’t let sunken concrete drag down your home’s value or safety! Call us at (587) 337-3353 or fill out a quote form on our website for a prompt response. We’re here to help restore your concrete to its best condition!
By understanding the causes of sunken concrete and taking action with effective solutions, you can safeguard your home and keep your property looking flawless. Remember, when it comes to concrete repair in Edmonton, TCB Foam Solutions has got your back!