How to Choose the Best Solution for Sunken or Damaged Concrete
If your driveway, sidewalk, patio, or garage floor is sinking or cracking, you may be wondering whether concrete leveling or full replacement is the better option. For Ohio homeowners, the right choice depends on the condition of the concrete, soil stability, cost, and long-term performance.
Ohio’s clay-heavy soil, frequent rain, and freeze–thaw cycles make concrete settlement common—but replacement isn’t always necessary. Understanding the difference between leveling and replacement can help you make a smarter, more cost-effective decision.
Why Concrete Problems Are Common in Ohio
Concrete issues in Ohio are often caused by environmental factors rather than poor workmanship:
Expansive clay soil that shifts with moisture changes
Heavy rainfall and snowmelt washing out soil beneath slabs
Freeze–thaw cycles expanding cracks and weakening support
Poor drainage directing water under concrete
Soil erosion and compaction loss over time
When the soil moves, concrete loses support and begins to sink or crack.
What Is Concrete Leveling?
Concrete leveling (also called concrete lifting) restores sunken slabs by filling voids beneath them and raising the concrete back to its original position.
How Concrete Leveling Works
Small holes are drilled into the slab
Expanding polyurethane foam or grout is injected underneath
The material fills voids and lifts the slab
Concrete is stabilized and leveled
Benefits of Concrete Leveling
Faster than replacement (often completed in hours)
Less disruption to landscaping and structures
More affordable than full replacement
Preserves existing concrete
Long-lasting results
Best Candidates for Leveling
Concrete that is structurally sound
Slabs with minor to moderate settlement
Cracks that are not severely deteriorated
Areas without widespread surface damage
What Is Concrete Replacement?
Concrete replacement involves removing the existing slab and pouring new concrete in its place.
When Replacement Is Necessary
Concrete is severely cracked or crumbling
Large sections are broken or missing
Structural integrity is compromised
Improper installation cannot be corrected
Drawbacks of Replacement
Higher cost
Longer project timelines
Extensive demolition and cleanup
Landscaping disruption
New concrete still vulnerable to Ohio soil movement
Concrete Leveling vs. Replacement: Key Differences
Feature
Concrete Leveling
Concrete Replacement
Cost
Lower
Higher
Time
Hours
Days
Disruption
Minimal
Significant
Longevity
Long-term
Long-term
Material Use
Existing slab
New slab
Which Option Is Right for Your Ohio Home?
Choose concrete leveling if:
Your concrete is intact but uneven
Settlement is caused by soil movement
You want a faster, cost-effective solution
Choose replacement if:
Concrete is structurally unsound
Damage is widespread or severe
Safety or code requirements demand new concrete
A professional inspection is the best way to determine the correct solution.
Why Professional Evaluation Matters
Without addressing the underlying cause—soil movement and water issues—even new concrete can sink again. Ohio concrete specialists evaluate:
Soil conditions
Drainage patterns
Extent of settlement
Structural integrity
This ensures the repair lasts.
Final Thoughts
Concrete leveling and replacement both have their place—but in many Ohio homes, leveling is the smarter, more efficient solution. It restores safety, appearance, and function without the cost and disruption of replacement.
