Sunken Concrete: Repair Or Replace?

A sunken concrete slab whether a sidewalk, driveway, pool deck or patio, will eventually need a concrete repair or replacement. The decision will often come down to the cost, benefits and capability. 

Concrete Repair

If caught early, most concrete slabs, in descent condition, can be lifted back toward original position quickly and cost effectively.

You may find yourself without the repair option. If your sunken concrete has become severely cracked  you may not be able to repair it, since repairing will most likely involve raising it. Raising a severely cracked or broken concrete slab may not be possible. Neither would it be practical to raise a slab with portions of the slab that may separate when raised. To decide whether or not to raise your concrete slab you'll need to determine if it is in a single, solid piece that will likely not fracture when raised. 

This concrete can be lifted.

This concrete needs to be replaced.

Before & After of Sidewalk Lift, no need for replacement.

Concrete Replacement

Planning to replace your sunken concrete, yourself? If so, keep in mind that you'll need to not only pour a new slab, including building a form and finishing the new concrete, you'll need to remove the old concrete. This means breaking it up and hauling it away.

Another point to remember is, WHY did the settlement occur in the first place? When replacing concrete, it is important to make sure the soil base is solid. Otherwise, your newly poured concrete may move and settle again in the near future.