Sunken concrete steps front porch

Restoring a sloping concrete porch in maple ridge

 

Project Overview

This Maple Ridge homeowner gave us a call since they were facing significant issues with their concrete front porch and steps. Over time, the structure leading up to their front door had sunken a few inches, which caused increasingly more noticeable problems:

  • Gaps between the front porch and the house
  • Cracks in the foundation of the porch and steps
  • A sloping walking surface that posed safety hazards

Our team at True Level Concrete specializes in solving all kinds of concrete issues, from small trip hazards to gaps and sunken front porches.
Our goal is to provide a convenient, reliable, as well as long lasting solution to the problem. For this project, we used a combination of push piers as well as PolyLevel® foam to lift, level, and stabilize the entire concrete structure and steps. Soon, this home’s concrete front porch will be finally re-levelled and stabilized.

 

 

Because this structure had sunken a few inches, that indicated that there might be more settlement throughout the property. Certainly, the walkways, patios, and also the driveway had serious settlement as well. Our crew was quick to use PolyLevel and lift and re-level the sunken slabs.

 

signs of settlement in concrete steps

Why the concrete front porch sank

Concrete structures like front porches and steps often suffer from sinking or uneven concrete due to factors such as:

  1. Soil Settlement: Over time, the soil beneath the concrete compacts or washes away, leaving the structure unsupported.
  2. Poor Drainage: Water pooling around the foundation exacerbates soil erosion.
  3. Weight of the Structure: The heavy weight of concrete contributes to the settlement over time if the soil base is not adequately stable.

In this particular case, the sinking had caused an unsightly appearance and safety concerns for the homeowner. Additionally, the sloping porch made it difficult to use the steps safely, especially in wet conditions.

installation of push piers lifting a concrete front porch repair

Our Solution – Push Piers

After a thorough assessment, we determined that a lifting and stabilizing approach was the best way to restore the concrete stairs and front porch:

  1. Push Piers Installation:
    • Push piers were driven deep into stable soil layers to lift and stabilize the porch foundation.
    • These piers provided permanent support, ensuring the structure would not sink again.
  2. PolyLevel® Foam Injection:
    • PolyLevel® foam was injected beneath the sunken areas to fill voids and provide even support.
    • This lightweight, durable foam expanded to lift the concrete back to its original level, eliminating gaps as well as slope issues.

Results and Benefits of this repair 

An immediate transformation from sloping to strong:

    • The front porch and steps were lifted back to their original position, closing gaps and eliminating the foundation cracks.
    • The walking surface was levelled, enhancing safety and usability.
    • The foundation stability was restored, preventing future settlement.

 

Considering quick concrete repair? 

Don’t wait until the damage worsens! If you notice gaps, cracks, or sloping on your concrete front porch or steps, contact True Level Concrete today. We offer reliable, cost-effective solutions to restore your home’s safety and curb appeal.

Call us now or schedule a free estimate online!

push pier on concrete front porch for lifting and levelling

PROJECT SUMMARY

Date: December 2024.

Certified PolyLevel Installer: True Level Concrete.

Products Installed:  2 Push Piers and PolyLevel

Time: 2 days