Sinking Concrete Steps

As a homeowner, having stable steps is crucial for having safe access to your home. Sinking concrete steps not only affects your home’s overall appearance but also poses significant safety concerns, including trip hazards. 

Foundation Systems of Michigan has established itself as a leader in resolving these problems, offering highly effective solutions that prioritize both the safety and visual appeal of your home. With our expertise and state-of-the-art techniques, our targeted concrete lifting strategies are designed to restore your home’s integrity and charm. 

This page provides valuable insights into the causes of sinking concrete steps and how Foundation Systems of Michigan’s specialized solutions address these issues for long-term results. 

What Are Sinking Concrete Steps? 

Sinking concrete steps manifest as visible sinking or shifts in concrete stairs, often leading to uneven surfaces and structural weaknesses. 

Such issues can severely affect both the safety and the appearance of your home. They hint at deeper problems, such as shifting soil, and often demand immediate professional attention. 

You might also identify similar concrete issues in other parts of your property, such as: 

• Cracked concrete 
• Sinking porch 
• Cracked concrete patio 
• Cracked sidewalks 
• Cracked driveway 
• Cracked pool deck 
• Concrete pitting, flaking, and staining 

Sunken steps not only represent tripping threats but also tarnish your home’s exterior appeal. If neglected, continuous wear can eventually result in complete step failure. That’s why professional solutions from Foundation Systems of Michigan should be implemented as soon as problems are noticed. 

What Causes Sinking Concrete Steps? 

There are several causes of sinking concrete steps, including: 

• Soil Settlement: When the soil beneath your stairs compacts, shifts, or sinks, it leads to the settling and cracking of the concrete above. This is a common issue, particularly with expansive soils high in clay content. 
• Soil Erosion: Water flowing under or against the stairs can erode and wash away the supporting soil, compromising the integrity of the concrete. 
• Tree Roots: As tree roots grow, they can disrupt the underlying soil and exert upward pressure, potentially lifting and cracking the concrete from beneath. 
• Excessive Moisture: Persistent moisture exposure, such as heavy rain, flooding, and snowmelt, can soften the soil under the stairs and contribute to erosion. 
• Freeze-Thaw Cycles: Water entering existing cracks that subsequently freeze and thaw can expand these cracks with each cycle. 
• Poor Concrete Workmanship: Low-quality concrete that was inadequately prepared or experienced issues during the curing process is more susceptible to cracking and sinking over time. 

It’s crucial to note that these factors not only affect the stability of your steps but also pose a threat to your home’s foundation. Therefore, it’s necessary to seek comprehensive solutions from experts like Foundation Systems of Michigan. 

Can You Fix Sinking Concrete Steps? 

Absolutely, repairing sinking steps is possible. However, DIY fixes seldom offer long-term solutions. Techniques like mudjacking can become an expensive, messy, and outdated option that doesn’t fix the problem long-term.  

A comprehensive approach is key. Addressing not only the visible damage but also the underlying issues means you’ll receive a solution that will last long-term. Foundation Systems of Michigan’s concrete lifting process involves injecting a high-density polyurethane foam beneath the concrete to lift and level sunken steps. The foam expands rapidly and sets within 15 minutes, ensuring a stable lift. 

In rare cases, additional specialized foundation repairs, like foundation piers, might be required. 

How to Fix Sinking Concrete Steps 

At Foundation Systems of Michigan, our advanced technique known as SettleStop™ PolyRenewal™ is used to expertly repair sinking concrete steps.  

Our detailed process includes: 

• Assessment: We conduct a comprehensive inspection to assess the extent of the damage, identify its root causes, and formulate a repair plan. 
• Drill Holes: We create small holes, approximately the size of a penny, in the affected concrete. 
• Position Ports: Injection ports are carefully placed into these holes in preparation for the next steps. 
• Mix Foam: We meticulously blend our specialized two-part polyurethane foam. 
• Inject Foam: The high-density foam is then injected underneath the affected concrete. 
• Lift Steps: The foam fills voids between the concrete steps and the soil, gently raising the sunken sections as it cures. 
• Fill Holes: Once the steps are stable, we fill the drilled holes to achieve a smooth and finished appearance. 
• Fill Cracks: In addition, we address any existing cracks, effectively repairing them to prevent future damage. 
• Maintain Safety: We offer a range of service and maintenance programs to ensure ongoing stability and longevity. 

Our proprietary concrete lifting foam is precisely engineered to the unique conditions of your home. Unlike do-it-yourself solutions, PolyRenewal™ provides a lasting remedy for safely elevating and securing sinking concrete stairs. 

Why Address Sinking Concrete Steps Now 

Addressing sinking concrete steps promptly is of utmost importance for several compelling reasons: 

• Prevent Further Damage: Delaying repairs allows water to infiltrate and widen existing cracks. Taking swift action helps stop the progression of issues. 
• Avoid Foundation Problems: The settling soil beneath your steps often signals potential foundation instability, necessitating immediate attention. Timely repairs can safeguard the integrity of your foundation. 
• Ensure Safety: Sunken and uneven stairs pose a significant risk of trips and injuries to you, your family, and guests. Concrete lifting eliminates tripping hazards and resolves structural instabilities, enhancing safety. 
• Preserve Property Value: Sinking, cracked stairs detract from your home’s visual appeal and curb appeal. Reliable repairs not only maintain but also enhance both the aesthetic and structural value of your property. 
• Long-Term Solution: Our concrete lifting repairs come with comprehensive warranties, providing you with peace of mind. Acting now to prevent further damage can ultimately save you from more costly repairs down the road. 

Stay ahead by allowing Foundation Systems of Michigan to examine and mend your sinking steps. Our specialized PolyRenewal™ service promises a secure, trustworthy, and enduring solution. 

Reach Out to Foundation Systems of Michigan for Reliable Concrete Lifting Solutions 

Repair your home’s aesthetics and safety by leveling your steps with help from Foundation Systems of Michigan’s concrete lifting services. For industry-leading service and unmatched outcomes, reach out today for a free, no-commitment inspection, and say goodbye to sinking concrete steps. 

With over 15 years of experience in restoring structures like sinking steps, homeowners throughout Michigan trust us for our exceptional customer service, meticulous attention to detail, and dependable repair strategies. 

_{*Disclaimer: “Concrete leveling” means the process by which cracked, uneven concrete is stabilized, and in many cases lifted, by means of PolyRenewal™ polyurethane foam. Foundation Systems of Michigan does not guarantee that PolyRenewal™ can make your concrete perfectly level.}