Uneven patios and sunken walkways aren’t just an eyesore. They’re a hazard tripping risks, pooling water, and structural strain that only get worse with time. At Polyco Spray Foam Insulation, we’ve seen what happens when these issues are left unchecked. But we’ve also seen what’s possible when they’re fixed quickly, cleanly, and permanently.
This guide will show you exactly how concrete lifting brings your outdoor spaces back to life. Whether your walkway has dipped a few inches or your backyard patio feels like a tilted stage, we’ll explain how the lifting process works, why it lasts, and how we at Polyco deliver results that hold strong.
Let’s dig in and show you what makes concrete lifting not just effective but the smart, long-term choice.
Why Patios and Walkways Sink Over Time
It doesn’t happen overnight. Most homeowners don’t notice the problem until their concrete has already shifted out of level. Soil erosion, moisture fluctuations, and poor compaction are the usual suspects. Over time, the ground beneath your slab can shrink, wash away, or settle unevenly, causing the concrete above it to follow.
This is especially common in areas with clay-heavy soils or inconsistent drainage patterns. If your patio puddles after every rain or your walkway edges are starting to crack, your soil’s telling you it’s under stress.
Common Signs of Slab Settlement You Shouldn’t Ignore
- Cracks forming near joints or edges
- Noticeable dips or sunken areas on patios or walkways
- Doors or gates no longer opening smoothly
- Water pooling or improper drainage
These aren’t just cosmetic issues they often signal deeper structural problems that will worsen if left unresolved. Addressing them now with concrete lifting prevents further damage, cost, and frustration.
How Polyco Spray Foam Insulation Addresses Underlying Soil Problems
We don’t just lift slabs we stabilize what’s underneath. Our concrete lifting services use high-density polyurethane foam injected beneath the sunken concrete. It expands to fill voids, re-compacts the soil, and creates a solid foundation that resists future shifting. This means your patio or walkway doesn’t just look right it stays right.
How Concrete Lifting Actually Works
Lifting settled concrete is a precise process, but not an invasive one. At Polyco, we use a method called polyurethane foam injection, also known as “slab jacking” or “foam jacking.”
We drill small holes (about the size of a dime) through the slab and inject a specialized expanding foam underneath. The foam expands rapidly, lifting the concrete back to its original level. It cures in minutes, so your surface is ready for foot traffic and often even vehicle traffic within hours.
Foam vs. Mudjacking: Why We Use Polyurethane
Unlike traditional mudjacking, which uses a slurry of cement and soil, polyurethane foam is lightweight, durable, and water-resistant. It doesn’t add extra stress to weak soils. It also sets faster, lasts longer, and is less likely to erode or shrink over time. That’s why we trust it, and why our customers keep coming back when other methods haven’t held up.
Immediate and Long-Term Results You Can Count On
One of the biggest advantages of foam lifting is the minimal downtime. You won’t be waiting days for concrete to cure or contractors to come back. Once we finish the injection and cleanup, your surface is good to go level, safe, and sealed.
Our process doesn’t just stop at the lift. We seal the injection holes, smooth the surface, and inspect the area to ensure long-term stability. The result is a finish that’s both functional and attractive.
The Real Cost of Waiting: Damage Grows With Time
Every day you wait, sunken concrete gets worse. As water flows into cracks and pooling areas, erosion accelerates. Gaps widen. Structural pressure increases. And eventually, the problem spreads beyond the original slab potentially affecting adjoining areas or the foundation itself.
Repair Costs vs. Replacement Costs
Concrete lifting is far more cost-effective than replacing a slab. Full replacements often require heavy demolition, extended downtime, and significant expense. Lifting is faster, less disruptive, and usually a fraction of the cost.
And because our foam lifting method targets both the slab and the soil beneath, you’re not just fixing the symptom you’re fixing the cause.
How Polyco Helps You Avoid Full Replacement
By catching settlement issues early and acting quickly, we help homeowners avoid full concrete replacement. Our lifting service is designed for long-term strength and fast turnaround. And because we handle everything from inspection to post-lift sealing, there’s no handoff between contractors just a smooth, simple solution.
Long-Term Maintenance and Prevention
Once your slab is lifted, keeping it that way comes down to smart, proactive maintenance. While our foam is resistant to moisture and soil movement, surrounding factors can still influence long-term results.
Drainage Fixes That Protect Your Investment
Water is the number one threat to concrete stability. Redirecting downspouts, improving grading, and fixing clogged gutters can all reduce erosion and prevent future voids from forming under your slabs.
At Polyco, we can assess drainage patterns and suggest improvements that will protect your newly lifted surface. We don’t just lift and leave we set you up for success.
Seasonal Inspections Keep Small Issues Small
If you’ve had one slab settle, others may follow. Soil shifts seasonally, especially in Louisiana’s varied weather. A simple annual inspection can catch small changes before they become major issues. We offer check-ups to ensure everything remains level, safe, and solid.
Ready to Bring Your Patio or Walkway Back to Life with Polyco Spray Foam Insulation?
If you’re tired of tripping hazards and settling slabs, we’re ready to help. With fast service, proven results, and a commitment to doing it right the first time, Polyco Spray Foam Insulation offers a smarter, cleaner fix for uneven concrete.
Phone: +1 225-286-3546
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.polycosprayfoam.com
Concrete problems don’t fix themselves. Let’s fix them together quickly, cleanly, and permanently.
Have More Questions? We’ve Got Answers
How long does concrete lifting take?
Most projects are completed in just a few hours. The foam sets quickly, and your patio or walkway is typically ready the same day.
Is foam lifting safe for the environment?
Yes. Our polyurethane foam is environmentally inert, non-toxic, and does not leach into the soil or groundwater.
Will the holes be visible afterward?
We patch and seal all injection sites to blend with the existing surface. Most become virtually unnoticeable over time.
How long does the repair last?
In most cases, our lifting results last decades. The foam is resistant to water, erosion, and shrinkage—making it more durable than traditional alternatives.
Can you lift concrete near structures or tight spaces?
Yes. The precision of our injection process allows us to work in areas where larger equipment can’t go, including against foundations, steps, and fences.
Does the process work for driveways or garage floors too?
Absolutely. While this guide focuses on patios and walkways, we lift a wide range of surfaces—driveways, garage floors, pool decks, and more.
What causes voids under my concrete in the first place?
Poor soil compaction, water intrusion, and natural erosion over time are the most common culprits.
Will rain affect the process?
We avoid performing injections in active rainfall, but once the foam is in place, it’s water-resistant and unaffected by moisture.
How do I know if my concrete is a good candidate for lifting?
If your concrete is structurally intact (not crumbling or severely cracked), it’s usually a great candidate. We’ll inspect and confirm before starting any work.
How do I get a quote?
Contact us directly at +1 225-286-3546 or email [email protected]. We’ll schedule an on-site inspection and give you a clear, honest estimate.