As the promise of pleasant weather approaches, Australian homeowners are eager to revitalise their outdoor spaces. However, cracks and sinking concrete can pose a threat to safety and, of course, significantly impact aesthetics. While a complete concrete overhaul may not be in this year’s budget, the benefits of concrete lifting offers present a cost-effective, swift, and less intrusive alternative for repairing patios, pool decks, steps, and walkways. 

The Causes of Concrete Cracking and Sinking

A newly laid concrete slab enhances your home’s curb appeal or backyard space. However, if your concrete has succumbed to settling post-installation, that flawless slab might be marred by unevenness and cracks. Indoor concrete is a considerable safety threat to your family and friends, particularly around steps, pools, and play areas.

Let’s examine three primary reasons that cause these issues:

1. Improper Installation

If you chose a less expensive contractor or didn’t thoroughly check their reviews, you might be left with an improperly poured concrete slab. Faulty installation can lead to future sinking and cracking issues as the soil shifts and withdraws support from the concrete above.

2. Water Runoff

Mismanaged water runoff can erode your property’s land. When installing a concrete slab, it’s crucial to consider water flow and accumulation in your yard and implement strategies to divert water away from the area.

3. Environmental Changes

Natural disasters like floods, earthquakes, or thunderstorms can damage your concrete and the land beneath it. Remember that tree and plant roots may alter the land beneath your concrete.

The Solution: Concrete Lifting

Many homeowners are hasty about replacing their concrete slab at the first sign of trouble. While a new slab can be visually appealing, it might not always be the most practical solution. Instead of starting from scratch, consider enlisting a professional for concrete lifting.

Professionals bore holes into the slab, creating channels to pump high-pressure polyurethane foam beneath it. As the pressure mounts under the concrete, the slab lifts, counteracting the sinking issue. After the lifting process is finished, the surface of your concrete slab is refinished, filling in cracks and drill holes. This process restores your slab’s surface and appeal without a complete replacement.

Why Choose Concrete Lifting?

Concrete lifting offers several benefits over complete replacement:

Cost-Effective

New concrete slabs are expensive, considering materials and labour costs. Concrete lifting reuses your existing slab, resulting in significant cost savings.

Time-Efficient

While new concrete pours can take several days to cure, concrete lifting allows you to use your concrete in minutes. The polyurethane materials are injected under your concrete cure in under 20 minutes.

Seamless Repair 

Concrete lifting operations are often inconspicuous; you can use your existing concrete. This avoids the stark contrast when installing new concrete sections alongside old ones.

Preserves Landscaping

Unlike the large-scale nature of the new concrete installation, concrete lifting is a less intensive project that spares your kerb appeal. There’s no need to excavate grass or plants; your garden remains undisturbed.

Long-Lasting Solution

The polyurethane foam used for lifting is robust yet lightweight. It is strong enough to support your concrete slab but light enough not to burden the soil underneath. 

Revitalising Your Concrete Surfaces

Don’t let cracked or sunken concrete detract from your outdoor living spaces any longer. Breathe new life into your damaged surfaces before summer. 

When consulting with professionals, enquire about the type and origin of the materials they use for concrete lifting, particularly steel and synthetic fibres. By investing in quality materials and expert application, you’re not just fixing a problem – you’re ensuring the longevity and stability of your outdoor spaces for years to come.