Concrete Lifting FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
Got questions about repairing your sunken concrete? Browse our quick answers below organized by topic, with direct links to our detailed guides for more in-depth technical information.
1. Slab Suitability FAQs
Can every concrete slab be lifted?
No. While most flat concrete slabs poured on grade can be raised, slabs that are completely shattered into tiny fragments, crumbling from severe surface scaling, or bound by active tree roots cannot be lifted. In those cases, full concrete replacement is required. See our full guide on concrete lifting methods.
Can cracked concrete be lifted?
Yes. If a slab has broken into 2 to 4 large sections, each piece can be independently raised back into alignment. However, lifting will not make physical crack lines disappear. Read our detailed guide on can cracked concrete be lifted?
Can garage slabs be lifted?
Yes. Garage floors and garage aprons are prime candidates for polyurethane foam lifting. Injecting high-density polymer fills the large voids that form near foundation walls and restores proper slope. Learn more on our garage slab lifting page.
Can basement slabs be lifted?
Yes. Interior basement floor slabs sitting on settled backfill soil can be raised using low-pressure polyurethane foam injection. Note that this lifts interior slab floors, not structural house foundation walls. Explore our guide on why concrete sinks in Calgary.
Can pool decks be lifted?
Yes. Polyurethane foam is lightweight and waterproof, making it the safest method for raising sunken pool decks without putting pressure on underground pool plumbing or pool walls. Visit our patio and pool deck lifting page.
2. Installation & Process FAQs
Do I need to be present during the job?
No. As long as our technicians have clear exterior access to the work area and unlocked yard gates, we can perform the lift while you are at work. See our step-by-step breakdown on how concrete lifting works.
Is heavy equipment required on my property?
No. All pumping equipment, generators, and foam tanks remain inside our mobile truck parked on the street. Only lightweight, flexible delivery hoses are run to your concrete. Review our property protection details on how concrete lifting works.
How large are the injection holes?
Dime-sized (5/8 inch). Polyurethane foam requires micro-injection ports that are drastically smaller than traditional 2-inch mudjacking holes. Compare hole sizes in our mudjacking vs. polyurethane foam guide.
What happens to the holes after lifting?
Injection ports are removed, and the 5/8-inch holes are patched flush with high-strength, color-matched cementitious grout that blends into the surrounding concrete surface over time. Learn more about post-lift finishing in how concrete lifting works.
Will my lawn or landscaping be damaged?
No. Because no heavy excavators or skid steers drive over your grass, your lawn, flowerbeds, and irrigation systems remain completely undamaged.
Is excavation required?
No. Polyurethane concrete lifting is completely non-invasive. There is zero digging, trenching, or demolition required.
3. Usage & Downtime FAQs
When can I walk on the concrete?
In 15 minutes. Polyurethane foam cures to 90% full compressive strength almost immediately after injection. Read about turnaround times on our polyurethane foam concrete lifting guide.
When can I drive on my driveway?
In 30 minutes. You can park cars, SUVs, or trucks on your lifted driveway or garage pad the very same day. Compare downtime with replacement in our concrete lifting vs. replacement guide.
How long does the work take?
1 to 3 hours. Most standard residential projects (driveways, walkways, patios) are completed in a single short morning or afternoon visit.
4. Weather & Seasonal FAQs
Can concrete lifting be done in winter?
Yes. Our mobile rigs utilize heated hose systems and pre-conditioned chemical supply tanks, allowing high-density foam to expand and cure effectively even during cold Calgary weather. Compare seasonal limits in mudjacking vs. polyurethane foam.
What is the best season for concrete lifting?
Spring, summer, and autumn offer optimal ground conditions, but polyurethane foam can be injected whenever sub-grade soils are unfrozen and accessible.
Does frozen ground affect concrete lifting?
Yes. If sub-grade soil contains heavy frost heave, lifting must be delayed until the ground thaws to prevent secondary settlement when ice melts. Read more about climate factors in why concrete sinks in Calgary.
5. Permissions & Property Access FAQs
Is a building permit required in Calgary?
No. Standard residential or commercial concrete slab lifting is classified as non-structural maintenance and repair, so municipal building permits are not required.
Is property access required?
Technicians only need clear physical access to the sunken concrete panels and an unlocked gate for backyard work areas.
Can public sidewalks be lifted privately?
No. Sidewalks located on municipal public property are managed by the City of Calgary. Homeowners can only authorize lifting on private property slabs (walkways, driveways, patios, steps).
6. Durability & Lifespan FAQs
How long does concrete lifting last?
Decades. Cured polyurethane foam is an inert, non-biodegradable material that will outlast the concrete slab above it. Overall repair longevity typically ranges from 10 to 20+ years when perimeter drainage is properly maintained. Read our complete guide on how long concrete lifting lasts.
Can the slab settle again?
While the injected polyurethane foam matrix will never shrink or compress, secondary soil erosion around the perimeter can cause future movement if downspouts or plumbing leaks remain uncorrected. Discover preventive tips in why concrete sinks in Calgary.
Does water damage or wash away the foam?
No. Geotechnical polyurethane foam is 100% hydrophobic (waterproof). It will not absorb water, decompose, erode, or break down during Calgary’s freeze-thaw cycles. Learn more on our void filling and soil stabilization page.
Have More Questions or Need a Quote?
We are here to help you restore your concrete safely and cost-effectively.
- Check budget factors on our Calgary concrete lifting cost guide.
- Explore all repair services on our Concrete Lifting Services Hub.
- Learn step-by-step installation on how concrete lifting works.