Slab jacking, also known as concrete levelling or concrete releveling, is a technique used to lifts concrete slabs back to their original position. It involves lifting one side of a concrete slab from below, effectively re-leveling it. 

This is achieved by injecting a particular filler material underneath the slab. The material fills up the void created due to soil movement or erosion, providing a stable base and allowing the slab to be raised back to its original position.

This technique is often used in cases where concrete slabs have sunk or become uneven over time. A pattern of holes is carefully drilled into the affected slab, and then a mixture, which could range from a mud-like substance to expanding polyurethane foam, is pumped beneath the slab. 

The pressure from this injection causes the slab to rise, levelling it with the surrounding area.

Whether you’re dealing with rising dampness in residential areas or require concrete slab jacking for commercial and industrial properties, our team specialises in providing effective slab repairs and releveling solutions.

Slab jacking is the best solution for sinking concrete, jammed doors, crack repairs, and when there’s a need for ground improvement and stabilisation. It is an ideal method for public buildings, residential properties, and commercial establishments.

The most common causes of sunken slabs

These typically boil down to one of three things:

1. Soil erosion: Heavy rainfalls, leaky pipes, or ineffective drainage systems can wash away the soil underneath your concrete slab, leaving gaps. As the support lessens, the slab starts to descend into these voids, resulting in uneven surfaces.
2. Poor compaction: If the soil isn’t compacted properly before pouring the concrete, it can lead to trouble. As the soil settles, it can create gaps under the slab, causing it to sink. That’s why getting the site preparation right is so vital when constructing.

Changes in moisture content: The soil’s moisture can drastically affect its volume and weight-bearing capacity. When the soil dries out, it can shrink, creating spaces where the slab can sink. On the other hand, if the soil soaks up too much water, it can lose its structural strength, leading to the slab sinking. This is particularly common with clay soil, which expands when wet and shrinks when dry.

While slab jacking has many advantages, including speed, efficiency, and permanence, it may not be suitable for all situations. For instance, it may not work well on large or heavy slabs.

Advantages of slab jacking

1. Speed and efficiency: Traditional methods of dealing with sunken slabs often involve excavating the entire area and pouring new concrete, which is time-consuming and disruptive. Slab jacking is quicker and can be completed within a day, depending on the project size.
2. Cost-effective: Slab jacking is typically more affordable than removing and replacing an entire concrete slab. There’s no need for expensive new concrete or the labour costs associated with demolition and replacement.
3. Minimal disruption: Slab jacking requires only small holes to be drilled in the concrete, resulting in minimal disruption to the landscape. Once the process is complete, these holes are filled in, leaving little evidence of the repair.
4. Environmentally friendly: Since slab jacking utilizes the existing slab, it reduces the need for new concrete production, which involves significant energy use and CO2 emissions.
5. Permanence: If performed correctly, slab jacking provides a long-lasting solution. The materials used in the process, especially in polyurethane foam jacking, are designed to maintain their integrity over time and resist further soil movement and erosion.

Disadvantages of slab jacking

1. Not suitable for all situations: Slab jacking might not be the best solution in some situations. For instance, if the slab has crumbled or decayed significantly, lifting it might cause it to break apart. Also, very large or heavy slabs may not respond as well to this method.
2. Limited aesthetic repair: While the drilled holes used for injection are filled after the process, there may still be visible signs of the repair. This could be a disadvantage when aesthetics are a concern.
3. Potential for incorrect application: If not done correctly, slab jacking might not provide the desired results. For instance, if the underlying issue is not addressed (like poor drainage causing soil erosion), the slab may sink again over time.
4. Cost: While slab jacking is more cost-effective than complete replacement, it can still represent a significant expense, particularly when polyurethane foam is used.

We offer a comprehensive range of services at Raise + Relevel, including slab jacking, concrete crack injection, crack repairs, foundation repairs, and more. We also provide a structural assessment to identify the best solution on the market for your specific situation.

Our slab jacking Brisbane team is fully licensed and insured, with a team of experienced and qualified engineers and technicians. We offer a free consultation to assess your needs and provide you with a quote. We work closely throughout the underpinning process to ensure you’re happy with the results.

The benefits of working with us for

• Fully licensed and insured: We’re a fully licensed and insured company, giving you peace of mind with our high safety and professional standards.
• Experienced team: Our team is a skilled ensemble of engineers and technicians with extensive slab jacking experience, ensuring efficient, top-quality work.
• Free consultation: We offer free consultations, providing detailed quotes to help you understand the project scope and costs upfront.
• High-quality materials: We use only the best materials in our slab jacking process, guaranteeing durable and long-lasting results.
• Efficient services: Valuing your time, we deliver fast, high-quality services that minimally disrupt your property and routine.

After the slab jacking process is completed, we don’t just walk away. We offer follow-up services to ensure your concrete slabs’ continued performance and integrity.

Don’t let sinking concrete or cracked walls compromise the integrity of your property. Contact us today for the best Brisbane slab jacking services on the market. We guarantee a high-quality, efficient service with a product warranty for your peace of mind. Contact us today, and let us help you raise and relevel your property to its former glory.