The top 5 causes of sinking concrete
The Top 5 Causes of Sinking Concrete
When you step outside and notice your driveway or sidewalk isn't as level as it used to be, you're likely dealing with a common issue: sinking concrete. At Jacked Up Concrete, we’ve seen it all—from minor sloping to serious dips that pose safety risks. In this post, we’re breaking down the top five causes of sunken concrete, what you need to watch for, and how mud jacking offers a lasting fix.
1. Water Erosion
Water is essential for life, but it's no friend to concrete. Over time, poor drainage or heavy rains can wash away the soil beneath your concrete slabs. As the support structure underneath erodes, the concrete above loses stability and begins to sink or crack.
How to Prevent It:
Ensure proper drainage around concrete areas
Keep gutters clear and direct downspouts away from slabs
Avoid overwatering landscaping near concrete
2. Poor Soil Compaction During Installation
Concrete is only as strong as what it’s resting on. If the soil wasn't properly compacted when your driveway, patio, or walkway was originally installed, it may begin to shift and settle unevenly over time.
Signs to Look For:
Cracks near the edges of slabs
Uneven or rocking sections
Sudden sinking after seasonal changes
3. Freeze-Thaw Cycles (Midwest Winters)
Living in the Midwest means dealing with frequent temperature swings. When water seeps into cracks and freezes, it expands—pushing concrete upward. When it thaws, the ground contracts, which causes slabs to drop.
Why It Matters: Repeated freeze-thaw cycles can lead to long-term instability and more costly repairs if left unaddressed.
4. Tree Roots Shifting the Soil
Trees are great for curb appeal, but their roots can wreak havoc on concrete. Roots absorb moisture and can displace or compact the soil beneath your slabs, creating dips or even lifting the concrete in certain areas.
Tip: If you’re planting near concrete, choose root-friendly plants or install root barriers.
5. Age and General Wear
Concrete isn't immune to aging. Over the years, small cracks can widen, edges can chip, and the subsoil can weaken. Even the most well-maintained concrete will eventually need some attention.
Solution: Mudjacking or PolyJacking offers a fast, affordable way to restore your concrete’s original position without the cost of full replacement.
Why Choose Mudjacking or Polyjacking?
Mudjacking and Polyjacking are an environmentally friendly and budget-conscious way to lift sunken concrete. By injecting a specialized product underneath the slab, we create a new foundation that restores the surface to a level, safe position.
Benefits:
Quick turnaround (usually within a day)
Long-lasting results (10–20 years)
Less disruptive and more affordable than concrete replacement
Ready to lift your concrete? We offer free estimates and fast service in the Eastern Wisconsin area. Give your sidewalk, patio, or driveway a second chance with Jacked Up Concrete.
