Can All Concrete Be Restored? When Is a Slab Too Damaged to Raise vs. Replace?
Learn when concrete can be restored with foam jacking or mudjacking and when replacement is necessary. Discover expert solutions from Slab-Jack Kings for various concrete issues.
What CAN’T Be Restored With Foam Jacking or Mudjacking
1. Precast or Hollow Cast Steps and Staircases
Why It Can’t Be Raised:
Precast or hollow cast steps and staircases pose a unique challenge. If there isn’t a solid concrete slab beneath the staircase, it’s likely tied into your house wall or secured with a helical pile at the base. Attempting to lift such structures using foam jacking can cause more harm than good, potentially leading to breakage or damage to your house foundation.
Our Recommendation:
In these cases, it’s often more cost-effective to remove the existing staircase and replace it with a new one. If you’ve noticed settlement issues only in recent years, consider installing a wooden staircase instead of a concrete one. This lighter option can reduce stress on unstable soil, providing a practical and budget-friendly solution.
2. Broken or Overburdened Concrete with Little-to-No Rebar Reinforcement
Why It Can’t Be Raised:
When concrete is extensively cracked, too thin, or lacks sufficient rebar reinforcement, lifting it becomes nearly impossible. The lifting materials, whether foam or mud, naturally follow the path of least resistance. In a slab with large gaps or multiple cracks, this can lead to further damage as the material seeps through the cracks rather than lifting the slab evenly.
Our Recommendation:
For concrete that’s too broken to be restored, replacement is the safest option. Proper reinforcement with rebar during the new pour will help prevent future issues, ensuring the longevity of your slab.
3. Patio Stones, Landscaping Bricks, Asphalt, and Similar Materials
Why It Can’t Be Raised:
Foam jacking and mudjacking are specifically designed for poured concrete slabs. Materials like patio stones, landscaping bricks, and asphalt require mechanical lifting and leveling techniques, which are outside the scope of polyurethane or mudjacking methods.
Our Recommendation:
If you’re dealing with uneven patio stones, bricks, or asphalt, we recommend contacting a professional landscaping company. They can provide the necessary mechanical raising and leveling services to restore your outdoor space.
4. Structural Pours/Slabs Utilizing Helical Piles
Why It Can’t Be Raised:
Structural pours involve concrete slabs anchored with helical piles (screw piles), making them part of a larger, load-bearing system. These types of slabs, often found in staircases, garages, and basement floors, are beyond the capabilities of foam jacking.
Our Recommendation:
For structural slabs showing signs of settlement, it’s best to consult a foundation specialist. They can assess whether mechanical lifting or a complete replacement is needed. If your concern is more about voids beneath the slab rather than lifting, void filling with our stabilizing foam systems might still be an option.
Can All Concrete Be Restored?
The Bottom Line:
Unfortunately, not all concrete can be restored with foam jacking or mudjacking. However, if none of the above scenarios apply to you, there’s a good chance that we can help. Contact Slab-Jack Kings today for a free foam jacking estimate!
Why Choose Slab-Jack Kings?
As a small, Canadian, family-based business, we pride ourselves on delivering professional consultations, estimates, and expert applications in concrete slab lifting, leveling, void filling, stabilization, and concrete under-slab insulation using polyurethane foam.
Our experienced professionals bring vast knowledge to each project, allowing us to provide personalized solutions to all your concrete issues. Don’t let an uneven slab become a tripping hazard—let us help restore your concrete and give you peace of mind.
Get in Touch Today!
Ready to reclaim your safe and level surfaces? Fill out our Request an Estimate form, and one of our family members will be happy to assist you. Experience the Slab-Jack Kings difference today!
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