Concrete Lifting
Does your driveway, sidewalk, walkway, concrete steps or patio have problem areas where sunken concrete has caused uneven surfaces and tripping hazards to form? It’s a very noticeable problem that has a very simple solution.
SCHEDULE YOUR FREE INSPECTIONConcrete Lifting Problem Signs
Sinking sidewalks, driveways, and concrete floors aren’t just eyesores – they can quickly turn into safety hazards!
Sinking Concrete Steps
Sinking concrete steps impact your home's appearance and safety. Learn why concrete stairs sink and how our team can fix them.
Cracked Concrete
Cracked concrete is common but unsightly and hazardous. Tar Heel Basement Systems offers reliable concrete lifting solutions.
Cracked Driveway
Cracked concrete driveways can be an eyesore and a safety hazard. Discover how Tar Heel Basement Systems address these issues!
Concrete Pitting, Flaking, & Staining
Explore the nuances of concrete pitting, flaking, and staining, and the unmatched solutions offered by Tar Heel Basement Systems.
Homeowners in Wilmington are familiar with the year-round rain the area experiences and the sandy soil their homes are constructed upon. The combination of the two can lead to sunken and cracked concrete structures around your home. Damage including sinking driveways, voids underneath sidewalks, uneven porch steps, or cracking pool decks can all be dangerous for you and your loved ones. Thankfully, these noticeable problems have a very simple solution to lift and stabilize them back to safety. At Tar Heel Basement Systems, we are proud to offer PolyRenewal™ polyurethane foam injections.
Causes of Concrete Damage
Concrete is heavy! When the soils underneath a concrete slab are unable to support its weight, the slab will sink.
Different types of soil have different load-bearing capacities. When a soil’s load-bearing capacity is exceeded, the soil will compact and settle.
It’s also possible for the soil beneath a slab to settle and compact of its own accord. Soil that contains large amounts of clay and/or silt will shrink substantially when it gets dry.
As the soil compacts underneath a concrete slab, the unsupported slab will sink as well, usually cracking in one or more spots.
The soil that is underneath your driveway, patio, or concrete steps may not necessarily remain there to provide adequate support for the concrete element. Soil washout can result in empty space beneath your concrete slab, unable to support it. This can lead to cracks and sink over time.
As water moves underneath your concrete slabs, it can wash away the soil that’s supporting the weight of the concrete. As this happens, it creates a void, or empty space, underneath. Over time, with nothing to support it, your concrete slab can begin to sink or cave in.
Award-Winning Service
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
They were great,Jose Morales,Anthony McCieary Jr.,Omar Cox
They were great,Jose Morales,Anthony McCieary Jr.,Omar Cox
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
It was nice to work with people who care and answer every question I had! Vaughn got it all started and James, Trent, RJ, Darrion were a…
It was nice to work with people who care and answer every question I had! Vaughn got it all started and James, Trent, RJ, Darrion were a great team. Good communication and efficiency without cutting corners. Looking forward to staying on schedule with future care/maintenance.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
We contacted Tarheel Basement Systems because, despite the fact that our home in Stokesdale was only 2 years old, it had a musty smell and…
We contacted Tarheel Basement Systems because, despite the fact that our home in Stokesdale was only 2 years old, it had a musty smell and shockingly we were beginning to see some mold spots on and around vents and in closets, including clothes. They sent out a representative (Harlan) promptly, on a Saturday, who inspected the crawl space, took readings of humidity in the wood and the insulation and overall air, took schematics of the crawl space, and plenty of pictures. He discussed the cost and options with us, taking his time, including financing options. He was extremely thorough, and we agreed on the scope of the work and cost. They initiated the project, with Jacob C and Terrence A arriving at our home early in the morning. Jacob and Terrence were extremely courteous and professional, dropped off some initial documentation, and got to work. I did not have to be home but was able to work from home for the duration of their visit and I can tell you that they worked hard for two days beginning early in the day until late afternoon. Other than leaving for home after Day 1, they did not leave the site and took minimal break time during the entire duration of their stay. Peeking out from time-to-time they took their time cutting the materials to size, and when the project was over recapped with me what they had done. My wife and I are extremely appreciative of Jacob C, Terrence A, Harlan, and the entire team at Tar Heel Basement Systems and would not hesitate to enlist them again!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Very pleased with the work that was completed in our crawlspace and John, Austin, & Chris were very professional, kind, and did an amazing…
Very pleased with the work that was completed in our crawlspace and John, Austin, & Chris were very professional, kind, and did an amazing job! Thank you!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Outstanding quality or work, addressed all of our concerns and left the job site perfect. Jecelyn Williams and Zach were a pleasure to work …
Outstanding quality or work, addressed all of our concerns and left the job site perfect. Jecelyn Williams and Zach were a pleasure to work with and extremely professional. I highly recommend requesting them to complete your project.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Tar Heel Basement Systems did a great job inspecting our foundation and creating the best system for our home. The technicians: Ian…
Tar Heel Basement Systems did a great job inspecting our foundation and creating the best system for our home. The technicians: Ian Addington, Justin Smith and Ian Brademeier did an amazing job. They were all professional and explained the whole process to us. We appreciate them coming out even with all the snow happening in Hampstead.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Jackson was very thorough. Explained everything very well. Great experience working with Jackson. Tar Heel Basement is a very good company…
Jackson was very thorough. Explained everything very well. Great experience working with Jackson. Tar Heel Basement is a very good company that does excellent work.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Excellent work. A high quality job by James, Keron and the crew. They were polite, professional, responsive to our questions and concerns.
Excellent work. A high quality job by James, Keron and the crew. They were polite, professional, responsive to our questions and concerns.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Excellent work. Charles. Dj, and Noah did excellent work. Very thorough.
Excellent work. Charles. Dj, and Noah did excellent work. Very thorough.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
This is just in the beginning stages. What I am rating the company on currently is the Certified Field Inspector John Dounoucos. John has…
This is just in the beginning stages. What I am rating the company on currently is the Certified Field Inspector John Dounoucos. John has been to our home twice. The first time was last week to learn what my concerns were and then quote me on the work that was needed. The first thing I would like to mention is John arrived on time and was very thorough and went over all the processes required. I told John I would be getting a second quote before making any decisions and he was good with that. The one thing that means the most to me is, John was NOT pushy, there was NO hard sell and NO you have to sign now or the price could change. John followed up with a text a few days later and we had just finished with our second quote. The price from the second company was fairly even, but I liked John's approach and the scope of work for this project. Looking forward to seeing how the job goes! I feel confident it will meet the high standards John outlined for us!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Jacob did an excellent job & kept my mom informed during the whole process. Although it was very pricy, it was well worth the money saved…
Jacob did an excellent job & kept my mom informed during the whole process. Although it was very pricy, it was well worth the money saved on the electricity & fixed water issues under the crawl space.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Very efficient and professional! Jess W. Zack
Very efficient and professional! Jess W. Zack
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Jared, Mike and Shy did excellent work. They advised me when they were enroute to my house and kept me informed on the progress of my crawl …
Jared, Mike and Shy did excellent work. They advised me when they were enroute to my house and kept me informed on the progress of my crawl space encapsulation. I cant tell you how happy I am to get dirty nasty space looking so spiffy clean and hope to reap utility rewrds during peak cold and hot seasons. Thank you so much and I would definitely recommend thes guys !!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
This company did a crawlspace encapsulation for us. The work is top notch and it only took 3 days. Everything was thoroughly explained to…
This company did a crawlspace encapsulation for us. The work is top notch and it only took 3 days. Everything was thoroughly explained to us. This company takes care of everything including debris removal, electrical outlet installation, and sump pump installation. Brian C and John C worked on our house and did a fantastic job. Thanks.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Josue “Daniel” Morales and Tito Chahine just completed installation in our crawlspace of a commercial grade dehumidifier. They were very…
Josue “Daniel” Morales and Tito Chahine just completed installation in our crawlspace of a commercial grade dehumidifier. They were very responsive to our questions and impressed us as highly informed. Their skills were evident in the finished project. True professionals with wonderful personalities. Excellent company ambassadors…
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
I am very pleased with the quality of work and attention to detail of Tar Heel Basement Systems, specifically of Ken DeCamp and Michael…
I am very pleased with the quality of work and attention to detail of Tar Heel Basement Systems, specifically of Ken DeCamp and Michael James. They were professional, communicative, and determined to do the job right.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Five stars is not enough for the crew that worked on our crawl space this past week! Mike J, Dillon Y, and Andy L were the most…
Five stars is not enough for the crew that worked on our crawl space this past week! Mike J, Dillon Y, and Andy L were the most knowledgeable, hard working team we have ever seen. They constantly went above and beyond to offer the very best customer service by repairing several items not covered in our initial quote. If you need help with your basement or crawl space look no further! Thank you guys for giving us piece of mind.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
We are very happy we had our encapsulation performed by Tar Heel Basement Systems. They were professional and did a great job, cleaned up…
We are very happy we had our encapsulation performed by Tar Heel Basement Systems. They were professional and did a great job, cleaned up after the job was completed. John, Chris, Justin, Cam and Gerridt are hard workers are extremely polite
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Juan and his crew were very knowledge, hardworking, and courteous. They thoroughly explained everything they were doing. I will not use…
Juan and his crew were very knowledge, hardworking, and courteous. They thoroughly explained everything they were doing. I will not use anyone else in future as they are the true professionals at this sort of work. The last company that I hired did not do a proper job and Tar Heel showed me that by the quality of work.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
John McGovern met with me on February 5th, on March 24th and 25th my encapsulation was completed. I have never worked with a more…
John McGovern met with me on February 5th, on March 24th and 25th my encapsulation was completed. I have never worked with a more professional, detailed, patient, kind team. John and his installation team are all amazing. The complete team kept me informed step by step until filling completely. They carried themselves with respect and kindness. The area was left very clean and trust me it was a mess. I would recommend them to anyone. If you want the EXCELLENCE, PROFESSIONAL, TOP PERFORMANCE CONTACT JOHN MCGOVERN at TARHEEL BASEMENT SYSTEMS! Thank you to John and his Team for ALL your hard work! The difference in my crawlspace is truly speechless! Sincerely, Dena
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Ken, Gerry, and James P. All worked hard, were professional, did an excellent quality job and educated us on what they were doing and…
Ken, Gerry, and James P. All worked hard, were professional, did an excellent quality job and educated us on what they were doing and follow up.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Ken,Gerry & James P did an excellent job. They were very professional. I would highly recommend.
Ken,Gerry & James P did an excellent job. They were very professional. I would highly recommend.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Jarrod and Shy were the best. They were both professional and friendly. They arrived on time, kept us informed and completed the job to our …
Jarrod and Shy were the best. They were both professional and friendly. They arrived on time, kept us informed and completed the job to our satisfaction. This experience with Tarheel was wonderful and I would highly recommend this company and crew.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Maurie is super professional, friendly, thoughtful. He spent about 2 hours with us, did all the feasible foundation and structural tests…
Maurie is super professional, friendly, thoughtful. He spent about 2 hours with us, did all the feasible foundation and structural tests for the property we are buying. He found no major concerns, explained to us patiently using the plain words, but accurately. We are really so happy for his free estimation service, strongly recommend this company to the customers in need of the foundation, basement, crawl space services. All the best, Eric
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Austin and Chris did a great job for my crawl space, exceeded my expectations! Highly recommend Tar Heel!
Austin and Chris did a great job for my crawl space, exceeded my expectations! Highly recommend Tar Heel!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
We had foundation issues and a sinking outdoor porch. Tar heel basement systems assessed the situation, created a plan to address the…
We had foundation issues and a sinking outdoor porch. Tar heel basement systems assessed the situation, created a plan to address the issues (Matt Cote & Steele Welch). The foundation crew (Jaun & Alex) and the "poly" crew (Andrew, Cody, Javi & Al) came out to our home and performed the necessary work to fix the problems. We could not be happier and would highly recommend this company and individuals. Wonderful communication and work was performed flawlessly.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
This guy's did a great job thank you so much
This guy's did a great job thank you so much
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Absolutely a great experience and totally seamless. From inspection, to customer contact and scheduling, to installation, all from a top…
Absolutely a great experience and totally seamless. From inspection, to customer contact and scheduling, to installation, all from a top rated professional team. My installers, Mike J and Aaron F., could not have been more friendly and kept me informed everyday of arrival times and work completed for that day. They answered any questions I had and provided additional information I hadn't even thought of. All work was completed with clean up on time as scheduled. Thank you TarHeel Basements team for your A-1 service!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Ian A, Ian B, and Taeveon came out and encapsulated my crawl space, and installed a sump pump for me. The work done was great and my crawl…
Ian A, Ian B, and Taeveon came out and encapsulated my crawl space, and installed a sump pump for me. The work done was great and my crawl space, as well as home have been more comfortable. Finished efficiently in a day and a half as well.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Many thanks to: Ed Greene Tim Everhart Micah Miller Billy Noyola This crew did a great job!
Many thanks to: Ed Greene Tim Everhart Micah Miller Billy Noyola This crew did a great job!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
The service performed was encapsulation to my home crawl space. This crew Nick Perfetti,Jabril McDougald and Grace Holderby are a great…
The service performed was encapsulation to my home crawl space. This crew Nick Perfetti,Jabril McDougald and Grace Holderby are a great team and their work is incredible and professionally done and complete.All points of installation was performed as previously discussed.I am 100% satisfied with this project.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
The team that did the encapsulating our crawlspace was Derrick (Foreman), Onyx and Jordan. They were great and professional. They were…
The team that did the encapsulating our crawlspace was Derrick (Foreman), Onyx and Jordan. They were great and professional. They were prompt and once they arrived they went straight to work. They unfortunately were working when it was raining and cold. Derrick kept me up to date on their process and provided pictures every day. One important part for me was that they would clean up at the end of the day. I would highly recommend them.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
JONATHAN, Brandoni,Givanni,did a wonderful job.I rate them 100 percent on their work performance
JONATHAN, Brandoni,Givanni,did a wonderful job.I rate them 100 percent on their work performance
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
I recently had the pleasure of working with Tarheel Basement Systems for a basement waterproofing project, and I felt compelled to share my …
I recently had the pleasure of working with Tarheel Basement Systems for a basement waterproofing project, and I felt compelled to share my experience, particularly highlighting the exemplary service provided by Ken Decamp, Michael Thompson, and Stephen Foster, along with my sales representative, Tim Martin. From the initial consultation to the completion of the project, the professionalism exhibited by the entire team was remarkable. Ken Decamp, the project foreman, demonstrated exceptional leadership and expertise throughout the process. His attention to detail and commitment to ensuring that every aspect of the job was executed flawlessly did not go unnoticed. Ken was always available to address any concerns I had and provided clear, concise answers that made me feel confident in the work being done. Michael Thompson and Stephen Foster were equally impressive in their roles as the installation crew. Their craftsmanship and dedication to quality were evident in the meticulous work they performed. They approached each task with a strong work ethic and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. It was evident that they take great pride in their work, and their professionalism contributed significantly to the overall positive experience. I would also like to commend Tim Martin, my sales representative, for his unwavering support and guidance throughout the entire process. Tim’s knowledge of the products and services offered by Tarheel Basement Systems was invaluable, and he took the time to ensure that I fully understood all aspects of the project. He was proactive in addressing my needs and concerns, and his follow-up was consistent and reassuring. Tim truly acted as an advocate for me, ensuring that my interests were prioritized at every stage. In conclusion, my experience with Tarheel Basement Systems has been outstanding, thanks to the professionalism and dedication of Ken Decamp, Michael Thompson, Stephen Foster, and Tim Martin. Their commitment to providing exceptional service is a testament to the values of the company. I highly recommend Tarheel Basement Systems to anyone seeking reliable, professional basement solutions. Their team exemplifies what it means to go above and beyond for their customers.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Jeffrey Traub came out the day after I called the company. I had a large tree root that appeared to be going under my house and I was…
Jeffrey Traub came out the day after I called the company. I had a large tree root that appeared to be going under my house and I was concerned it could cause cracks in my slab. He was on time and very thorough in examining my house. While he didn't find any problems he did spot a couple of issues for me to keep my eye on. He also explained I probably had lots of tree roots going under my house and that I just couldn't see them. My neighborhood had been built on land that was heavily wooded. He also explained HOW they fix a SLAB house that has foundation problems. I had envisioned all sorts of nightmare scenarios such as having to move all my belongings out and having my new floors ripped up. Luckily that is NOT how they repair it. Just knowing if that horrible day ever came where I would need their services, that it wouldn't be the nightmare I had thought, put my mind at ease. Jeffrey's explanation of the care they take to preserve my flooring while making repairs was very reassuring. The person who set up the appointment was also very thorough in asking questions to determine what the issue might be and which serviceman to send. Since I don't have a basement or crawl space I never thought I could have foundation problems. I was wrong but luckily I do not have any at this time and thanks to Jeffrey I am knowledgeable about what to look for in order to catch problems in their early stage when it is easiest and cheapest to fix. I would definitely recommend this company and suggest you ask for Jeffrey Traub to come to your house.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Cameron and Garrett were awesome to work with and did great work! Really appreciate them giving me a crawling tour when the work was…
Cameron and Garrett were awesome to work with and did great work! Really appreciate them giving me a crawling tour when the work was complete! Thank you so much!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
We heard about Tarheel Basement Systems through some local radio advertisements on 2 Guys Named Chris – called and met with a very…
We heard about Tarheel Basement Systems through some local radio advertisements on 2 Guys Named Chris – called and met with a very knowledgeable company representative. We decided to get some much needed basement/crawl space work done and are very happy with the finished result. The number one thing we have noticed besides the dry basement is that our air quality inside our house is so much better. That alone was worth having the work done, not having to worry about moisture and mold are just added benefits. Thank you, the process from start to finish was very smooth and the crew was very professional and did a wonderful job!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Jared and Mike went above and beyond with our crawl space encapsulation! They installed a sump pump and dehumidifier, tackling a…
Jared and Mike went above and beyond with our crawl space encapsulation! They installed a sump pump and dehumidifier, tackling a labor-intensive job with incredible patience and zero complaints. When they finished, I could hardly believe it was the same crawl space—it looked amazing! The project took about four days, with a long commute each way, yet their dedication never wavered. They even came back to install another door, working quickly and efficiently while delivering top-notch results once again. If you need any basement system work done, I can’t recommend Jared and Mike enough. Truly outstanding service—thank you both! ❤️
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Job well done! On time, informative, and professional.
Job well done! On time, informative, and professional.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
The guys just wrapped up at my house today. Tylor, Andrew and Stephen did a great job. They were prompt, communicated well and were happy…
The guys just wrapped up at my house today. Tylor, Andrew and Stephen did a great job. They were prompt, communicated well and were happy to answer all of my questions. Corey was quick to come out and get a plan of action, which was much appreciated. With remodeling my home I’ve found it’s rare to have a great crew that executes as planned, arrives when scheduled, and leaves things cleaner than when they started. Tar Heel has just that. As a whole they have been a pleasure to work with and I have no complaints. Excited to have peace of mind when it comes to my basement.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
John, Austin, and Chris did a great job reworking our crawl space and installing drains and a new sump pump. Work was completed on time and …
John, Austin, and Chris did a great job reworking our crawl space and installing drains and a new sump pump. Work was completed on time and on budget.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Good job completing our crawl space repair
Good job completing our crawl space repair
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
I had just purchased a property and needed work on the crawlspace. Pete came out and did the initial inspection and explained everything…
I had just purchased a property and needed work on the crawlspace. Pete came out and did the initial inspection and explained everything thoroughly. We scheduled our service and then Ray W, Justin U, Greg H, and Eduardo Z came to do work and were extremely professional. At the end Ray walked me through everything they had done for an overall great experience!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
This morning Supervisor John,Tech Austin,Tech Chris arrived on time ready to work.They got everything together went under the house and got …
This morning Supervisor John,Tech Austin,Tech Chris arrived on time ready to work.They got everything together went under the house and got the job completed.John kept me informed on how the job was going.Great job by all.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Worth every penny, very happy from start to finish. We opted for the complete crawl space encapsulation, moisture control, and floor…
Worth every penny, very happy from start to finish. We opted for the complete crawl space encapsulation, moisture control, and floor leveling. When the work was done and we discovered that their original plan missed a key leveling issue, they promptly came back out and did the extra work at no charge to us. Our salesman Jay was never pushy and had the patience of an angel. Thank you to the crew including Victor, Brian, Austin, Christian, Malik, Robert and James for doing a fantastic job.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
The installers did an outstanding job encapsulating our crawlspace, installing a dehumidifier and sump pump. It looks lovely! Ken,…
The installers did an outstanding job encapsulating our crawlspace, installing a dehumidifier and sump pump. It looks lovely! Ken, Stephen, and Jael were knowledgable, courteous, personable and professional. The job was completed in 2 and a half days. They hauled away the old liners and left the site spick and span. They kept us fully updated on the process. We also appreciated their attention to detail. They supplied us with a photo of a plumbing issue under the house of which we were unaware. Thanks to their help, we can get this taken care of before it gets worse. Thank you Ken, Stephen, and Jael for your careful work.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Spoke with Jay Yount in Winston Salem, he gave us a very thorough evaluation of the areas of concern in our home. While we did not go with…
Spoke with Jay Yount in Winston Salem, he gave us a very thorough evaluation of the areas of concern in our home. While we did not go with Tar Heel basement it had nothing to do with the service we were given and will use them in the future for our basement needs
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Jess W, and Zach B. Did an excellent job on a somewhat unique issue with the drainage t of my walkway and patio. They were very…
Jess W, and Zach B. Did an excellent job on a somewhat unique issue with the drainage t of my walkway and patio. They were very professional and explained the procedure thoroughly. I felt comfortable with them at home.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Got a quote today by Tim and he was fabulous. Gave great detail about what needed to be done. Very professional and friendly.
Got a quote today by Tim and he was fabulous. Gave great detail about what needed to be done. Very professional and friendly.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Juan & Alex did a remarkable, professional, and quick job. Communication was excellent throughout and the process exceeded expectations….
Juan & Alex did a remarkable, professional, and quick job. Communication was excellent throughout and the process exceeded expectations. Austin completed the original inspection & quote and walked me through the finance and contract. Highly reccomended.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
From the start of the initial estimate Tarheel was easy to work with. Ian and Daniel were the two guys who came to work on my crawl space…
From the start of the initial estimate Tarheel was easy to work with. Ian and Daniel were the two guys who came to work on my crawl space and they were amazing. They both went above and beyond in what they had to do and went as far as helping with things that wasn’t their responsibility. I would recommend Tarheel to anyone.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Very pleased with process from inspection with Steele and the actual work done by John, Chris and Taylor. They were every professional and…
Very pleased with process from inspection with Steele and the actual work done by John, Chris and Taylor. They were every professional and did quality work especially considering the limited space underneath our house. They explained everything as they went along felt very informed as to what was being done to fix our floors.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Great company and service!! Charles, DJ and Noah completed encapsulation on our crawlspace, and they did an excellent job! They were…
Great company and service!! Charles, DJ and Noah completed encapsulation on our crawlspace, and they did an excellent job! They were extremely professional, nice and efficient. Highly recommend using this company!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
I was extremely satisfied with the professionalism and hard work that Adam Canter (lead), Tim Witherspoon and Ryan Oldman displayed. They…
I was extremely satisfied with the professionalism and hard work that Adam Canter (lead), Tim Witherspoon and Ryan Oldman displayed. They worked well together to complete the job on time and above expectations. I was impressed with the systems but even more impressed with the way it was installed, the efforts to control the dust and the cleanup that occurred throughout the job. I would suggest you ask for this crew by name. I had the work quoted by others but there was no warranty included. I think the extra money spent was well worth the quality, warranty and included follow-up inspections. The lifting peer systems installed closed the cracks in the brick veneer on the length of 3 sides of the house as planned. I observed the installation of the wall braces and could see the immediate reduction in bowing of wall. Very happy with results.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
I would like to say that James Barnes Alfred McCann and Trent Evans were very profession and courteous thru out the entire project' It was…
I would like to say that James Barnes Alfred McCann and Trent Evans were very profession and courteous thru out the entire project' It was a pleasure working with these guys. They explained everything and may sure I understood everything thru out the job.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Great experience with the crew, Austin G, Justin H, and Austin L, who came to level my floors. They were knowledgeable and friendly….
Great experience with the crew, Austin G, Justin H, and Austin L, who came to level my floors. They were knowledgeable and friendly. Completed the job, thoroughly, within the time that they said they would.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Agent Experience – I contracted Tar Heel Basement Systems for a slab foundation inspection for a buyer client. Christopher Raymond was the…
Agent Experience – I contracted Tar Heel Basement Systems for a slab foundation inspection for a buyer client. Christopher Raymond was the inspector assigned – I couldn’t have been more satisfied with his service. He was attentive to the concerns raised and thorough in his work/ findings. He was able to supply a quote within 2 hours of our appointment! I will definitely recommend Tar Heel to more clients in the future.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Amazing work very professional.
Amazing work very professional.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Just completed installation of our basement system. The crew that did the work (James B, Trent E, Marion H, and James Wm) were excellent…
Just completed installation of our basement system. The crew that did the work (James B, Trent E, Marion H, and James Wm) were excellent and kept us informed of each step in the installation and always answered any questions. They cleaned up at the end of each day and double checked after completing the job to make sure everything was clean. Thank you for sending a great crew to do our job. Alberto
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Gus J., Josiah L., and Anthony M. with Tarheel Basement Systems are stellar! They called to confirm arrival time, arrived when they said,…
Gus J., Josiah L., and Anthony M. with Tarheel Basement Systems are stellar! They called to confirm arrival time, arrived when they said, and explained everything about our project thoroughly. They stabilized and releveled (way better than any of us expected!!) our outdoor fireplace. They cleaned up the site and made sure we were happy with everything before the left. Top notch crew!!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
David P, James C and Tyler F were nothing shy of amazing! David runs a top notch crew, showing up and working diligently, with thorough…
David P, James C and Tyler F were nothing shy of amazing! David runs a top notch crew, showing up and working diligently, with thorough communication! A job well done and would highly recommend to anyone needing foundation support services and crawlspace attention!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Mike and Caleb were amazing! They were very professional, communicated how the work was going, did a beautiful job and the area was…
Mike and Caleb were amazing! They were very professional, communicated how the work was going, did a beautiful job and the area was spotless when they finished. I highly recommend!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Tar Heel Basement Systems came highly recommended and we were not disappointed. Jacob, David and Noah were efficient, professional and…
Tar Heel Basement Systems came highly recommended and we were not disappointed. Jacob, David and Noah were efficient, professional and great to work with. They communicated daily with us and did a fantastic job!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Tar Heel basement systems goes over and beyond their obligations to satisfy their customers even several years past. They came out and…
Tar Heel basement systems goes over and beyond their obligations to satisfy their customers even several years past. They came out and retaped some of the seams in the vapor barrier and cleaned the barrier where some water had pooled. I highly recommend them and their service technician (Jacob ) went over and beyond his duties to satisfy me as a customer. He readjusted my dehumidifier to the proper settings. Get them to help you! You won’t regret it! Superior service!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Jalynn Brown ensured great communication during the process. He and his crew, Trenton Evans and Jahi Atkinson, did a great job.
Jalynn Brown ensured great communication during the process. He and his crew, Trenton Evans and Jahi Atkinson, did a great job.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Mike z.tae s.lawrence b they did a very good job
Mike z.tae s.lawrence b they did a very good job
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
We recently had an encapsulation of our crawlspace. We called Tarheel Basement and John Reavis came out to assess our needs. John was…
We recently had an encapsulation of our crawlspace. We called Tarheel Basement and John Reavis came out to assess our needs. John was professional, knowledgeable and thorough. He offered solutions to our problem without any pressure to buy. After meeting with John we knew that this was the company that we wanted to do business with. Brian Carey along with Leo and Stephon were scheduled to do our crawlspace encapsulation. They showed up on time and Brian went over the work details for each day. These hardworking guys did a great job for us. We couldn’t be happier with the results. It looks amazing. Eric Townsend also came out to go over the installed equipment. These were a great group of people who provided excellent customer service. We are so glad that we chose Tarheel Basement of Winston Salem.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Thoroughly impressed from start to finish! It took 6 weeks to get the installation appointment (post hurricane) but we received texts…
Thoroughly impressed from start to finish! It took 6 weeks to get the installation appointment (post hurricane) but we received texts periodically during that time confirming our appointment. Was nice to know we hadn’t been forgotten about! JACOB C and TERRENCE A did an exceptional job!!! They were on time, professional, polite, honest, knowledgeable and kept us informed of the progress throughout the day. Job was started on 12/23 and completed early the next morning on 12/24; you would have never known they were working just before Christmas – their attitude was GREAT! Restoworx did a fantastic job with mold remediation. JOHN D. did our inspection and walked us through the purchasing process. He was honest, professional and fantastic to work with! All in all – EVERYONE was great to work with. Our crawlspace looks amazing! I’m not afraid to go under the house any more. Professional, courteous and prompt. We will definitely call Tarheel for any future needs!!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
We recently had a crawlspace encapsulation by Tarheel Basement of Winston Salem. John Reavis came out to do an inspection. He was…
We recently had a crawlspace encapsulation by Tarheel Basement of Winston Salem. John Reavis came out to do an inspection. He was professional, and did a thorough inspection of our crawlspace. He answered all our questions and offered solutions without pressure to buy. We knew after meeting with John that this was the company that we wanted to do business with. Crew leader Brian Carey along with Leo and Stephon did a great job making our crawlspace look great. They showed up on time and Brian went over the work details for each day. Eric Townsend also came out afterwards to check the equipment. Everyone with Tarheel Basement was great. We could not be happier with the result and we are so happy we chose this company!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Very pleased with the work. Work done by Ken, Gerry and James P.
Very pleased with the work. Work done by Ken, Gerry and James P.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
So beyond pleased with Tarheel Basement Systems! I'm a 2-year customer as of this week. A complete encapsulation, french drains, sump…
So beyond pleased with Tarheel Basement Systems! I'm a 2-year customer as of this week. A complete encapsulation, french drains, sump pump and dehumidifier. I receive an inspection each year around this time, my representative was John Snow, was amazing, so polite, punctual, kept me up to date on his arrival via text and phone, it was so pleasant seeing someone who "gets" customer service , and John does! He informed me my dehumidifier was not working, and would be replaced under warranty, and like clockwork as John said, he replaced it today! The easiest replacement ever, he arrived worked diligently, above and beyond! Again, beyond pleased!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Good work and communication from Josue M and Tito C.
Good work and communication from Josue M and Tito C.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
We had a great experience with Tim Martin. He explained our crawl space problem to us and showed us pictures. He explained different…
We had a great experience with Tim Martin. He explained our crawl space problem to us and showed us pictures. He explained different options to us so that we could make an educated decision.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Tar heel basements did an awesome job in our basement. Ian and Nathan were very courteous and professional and they did an excellent job. …
Tar heel basements did an awesome job in our basement. Ian and Nathan were very courteous and professional and they did an excellent job. Highly recommended.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Grace H. was a great foreman. She was professional, nice, knowledgeable, courteous and responsive. She kept her team (AJ, Eduardo, Omar,…
Grace H. was a great foreman. She was professional, nice, knowledgeable, courteous and responsive. She kept her team (AJ, Eduardo, Omar, Chris and Zy) on task. She kept me informed every day and stayed true to her word.The work was professional, neat and clean.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
FABULOUS JOB AND CREW! WENT ABOVE AND BEYOND OUR EXPECTATIONS!!!!
FABULOUS JOB AND CREW! WENT ABOVE AND BEYOND OUR EXPECTATIONS!!!!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Juan and Alex did a great job with the encapsulation of the crawl space at my house. They were very polite and professional. I would highly …
Juan and Alex did a great job with the encapsulation of the crawl space at my house. They were very polite and professional. I would highly recommend them and Tar Heel Basement Systems.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Gary Hacker and Robert Hacker have been efficient, polite, and good communicators. They performed the job with virtually no mess for us,…
Gary Hacker and Robert Hacker have been efficient, polite, and good communicators. They performed the job with virtually no mess for us, cleaning and straightening each day before they left. Thank you, Tarheel.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Jess and Zach did a great job. Fixed my sidewalk and were professional through the whole process.
Jess and Zach did a great job. Fixed my sidewalk and were professional through the whole process.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Jess and Josiah came out to lift some sunken concrete and fill some voids that developed under my garage and slab. They did an awesome job! …
Jess and Josiah came out to lift some sunken concrete and fill some voids that developed under my garage and slab. They did an awesome job! Everything looks great and I feel much better about how stable everything is.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
My Service Tech Matthew K did an awesome job identifying the problem (water seepage) and finding a way to address it without breaking the…
My Service Tech Matthew K did an awesome job identifying the problem (water seepage) and finding a way to address it without breaking the bank (a sump pump system). The foreman Grace H and her team were able to come out just a week or two after I scheduled the work, and they were fantastic to work with — on time, professional, friendly, and very patient even though I had a lot of questions. I would definitely recommend Tar Heel — I feel like this is one of the best investments I've made in my home.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
I recently scheduled an appointment for an assessment & estimate for waterproofing and repairing a section of crawl space in my home with…
I recently scheduled an appointment for an assessment & estimate for waterproofing and repairing a section of crawl space in my home with Tar Heel Basement Systems. The entire process was easy and seamless, from scheduling, to communication regarding the time of the appointment and subsequent arrival of the technician, to the inspection and final explanation of the estimate and what I would need. I want to give Mark Caddell a big shout out for his professionalism, knowledge, and genuine care for me and what I needed. Outstanding customer service!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Robert and his crew (Kenneth, Ken, Steven, Micah, Tyrese) were all awesome. They were on time, were efficient,.worked well together, did…
Robert and his crew (Kenneth, Ken, Steven, Micah, Tyrese) were all awesome. They were on time, were efficient,.worked well together, did the contracted work, cleaned up all debris, and went above and beyond to be sure we were satisfied with the results. Amazing, awesome crew. Robert is a true leader.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Great experience with Tarheel Basement. Tim Everhart, Micah Miller, and Zac Mathes were all courteous and respectful while working. I…
Great experience with Tarheel Basement. Tim Everhart, Micah Miller, and Zac Mathes were all courteous and respectful while working. I highly recommend any services provided by Tarheel Basement Systems.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Jay was very knowledgeable and helpful in assessing my crawl space and a portion of concrete slab on the house
Jay was very knowledgeable and helpful in assessing my crawl space and a portion of concrete slab on the house
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
I've been writing to all my friends and family about the great job that tarheel basement did in my home! I have no more worries…
I've been writing to all my friends and family about the great job that tarheel basement did in my home! I have no more worries about water getting in and destroying my house now! Ken Stephen Michael and Robert are the most professional hard-working guys I could ever ask for to work on my house!!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
JAMES JOSH AND JACK WERE GREAT! Highly recommended!
JAMES JOSH AND JACK WERE GREAT! Highly recommended!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Collin was my inspector. He was very helpful with our needs. The sales process was super easy. The install team was great. Stephon kept me…
Collin was my inspector. He was very helpful with our needs. The sales process was super easy. The install team was great. Stephon kept me informed each step of the way. Jorge, Jesus, and Joey were very friendly. They all cleaned up and left the yard tidy. It was a seamless process!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
The team of Donald Jones, James White, and Devon Vereen did an exceptional job with the encapsulation of our crawl space. They explained…
The team of Donald Jones, James White, and Devon Vereen did an exceptional job with the encapsulation of our crawl space. They explained what they were doing, explained what was needed to be done, and worked hard to get it done and clean up after! Highly recommend.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
The service was great and the crew was polite and worked at a great place..i recommend Ken, Gerry and James P for your basement needs.
The service was great and the crew was polite and worked at a great place..i recommend Ken, Gerry and James P for your basement needs.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
My installers did an amazing job. They were punctual, neat, organized, and didn’t leave until every last detail was finished. Their names…
My installers did an amazing job. They were punctual, neat, organized, and didn’t leave until every last detail was finished. Their names were Ken, Stephen, David K and Dalton. I am so pleased with my new basement system!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Matthew Mounts and John Snow were our Tarheel Basement Specialists. They were prompt and professional and kept us updated on the steps of…
Matthew Mounts and John Snow were our Tarheel Basement Specialists. They were prompt and professional and kept us updated on the steps of the process throughout. We appreciated their professionalism. They were great to work with.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Jordan, Ian, and Nathan were professional, polite, respectful, and informative. Ian and Nathan did the installation and I'm very impressed…
Jordan, Ian, and Nathan were professional, polite, respectful, and informative. Ian and Nathan did the installation and I'm very impressed with the job they did. I don't want to leave out the young lady who answered the phone when I called with questions. I apologize if I'm wrong; I think her name is Sarah. She is also very polite and was eager to help. My experience with Tarheel Basement Systems is positive and I recommend them highly.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Jacob C and Terrence A did a fantastic work. Came in the morning went over what they would be doing asked if I had any questions also…
Jacob C and Terrence A did a fantastic work. Came in the morning went over what they would be doing asked if I had any questions also answered my questions. Did what they said they were going to do cleaned their mess up. In the end showed me around the house asked again if I had any questions or concerns. Those two were very professional and caring about our property. You can’t hardly tell they were at my home. K Walsh
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
I recently had a drain and sump pump added to my basement garage. The process was simple and easy from getting them estimate to the work…
I recently had a drain and sump pump added to my basement garage. The process was simple and easy from getting them estimate to the work completed. The 3 gentlemen Ken, Stephen and Michael T. called when they were on the way. When they arrived, they introduced themselves and walked me through what was going to be done. The work was done quickly and there was no mess left behind, just a great system that has dried out my basement garage wall and gotten rid of the smell.
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Cameron S, Gerritt T, Ethan S were absolutely professional and courteous. They arrived on time, answered any questions we had, cleaned the…
Cameron S, Gerritt T, Ethan S were absolutely professional and courteous. They arrived on time, answered any questions we had, cleaned the area after they finished and made sure we were satisfied. I would highly recommend them!!!!
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
- 5/
Friendly crew of three got the job done in a single day. Clearly explained the process and documented their work with photos. They were…
Friendly crew of three got the job done in a single day. Clearly explained the process and documented their work with photos. They were the most costly of the 3 contractors I got estimates from, but I appreciated their professionalism and the quality of products used.
- 4/
- 4/
- 4/
- 4/
- 4/
Nyles, Tyree, & Jeff did an excellent job encapsulating my crawlspace. They explained everything and were very professional. When an issue…
Nyles, Tyree, & Jeff did an excellent job encapsulating my crawlspace. They explained everything and were very professional. When an issue came up concerning the crawlspace door, they made sure to contact the manager and a custom door was made for the space. I did have to call and inquiry about a few things and return visits but they were reaponsive and made sure the job was done. Great install team!!
Concrete Lifting Solutions
Older, ineffective methods of concrete lifting such as slab jacking and mudjacking are expensive and incredibly invasive. Over the years, these methods have been less common in comparison to other more effective methods such as polyurethane foam injections. Known for their quick turnaround after installation, these injections usually cure in about 15 minutes so you can use your concrete structures the same day.
Driveway Repair
Choose Tar Heel Basement Systems and our advanced concrete lifting procedure for lasting, reliable concrete driveway repair.
Pool Deck Repair
Experience unparalleled concrete pool deck repair with Tar Heel Basement Systems' innovative PolyRenewal™ concrete lifting system.
Concrete Step Repair
Damaged and uneven concrete steps pose hazards. Tar Heel Basement Systems repairs them efficiently.
Concrete Crack Repair
Repair concrete cracks today and ensure long-term stability and protection.
Is Concrete Lifting the Right Solution for Me?
Concrete is a heavy material and so are the vehicles, machinery, and structures that concrete slabs and footings are expected to support. Sometimes, the combined weight of concrete and what it supports causes concrete settlement to occur. The soil beneath the concrete compresses and can cause major problems.
Commercially, concrete roadways can become dangerous or unusable. This often results in sections of runways and parking lots being closed. In the example of trains, train service can be interrupted because of erosion and settlement beneath the trackbed. This can cause problems at your home as well. Uneven sidewalks, walkways, and steps can cause tripping, and sunken driveway slabs can make parking your car in the garage quite a challenge.
In whatever case you’re experiencing concrete damage, let the experts at Tar Heel Basement Systems help. We specialize in PolyRenewal™ foam injections that can effectively lift and stabilize your damaged or sunken concrete. PolyRenewal™ is a durable, lightweight, and waterproof foam injection that is injected underneath the slab. It cures in about 15 minutes so that normal traffic can resume on your concrete. It can be used for almost any concrete structure such as concrete porch steps, sidewalks, driveways, pool decks, garage floors, and more!
FAQs
We recommend that you allow a professional to undertake sidewalk lifting processes on your behalf for a number of reasons. Sidewalk lifting and repair are complex processes which are best undertaken by those who have experience. The benefits of doing so are many.
The Risks Associated with DIY
Undertaking DIY sidewalk lifting comes with certain risks. These mostly concern the materials and equipment that are required to do the task well. PolyRenewal™ polyurethane foam, for example, is a specialized product which is intended to be used by those who have a certain level of training and experience. The two-part foam must be mixed and injected properly in order to get the desired results in a consistent way.
If the foam is mixed improperly, the proportions are not calculated right, or the injection process is not completed in the correct way two main issues could arise. First, the foam could fail to expand with enough force, or fail to expand far enough, which will not lift the concrete surface in question. Secondly, the foam could over-expand or expand with too much force. This could cause the concrete slab or surface to buckle upwards and cause more damage.
The Benefits of Professional Help
One of the main benefits of seeking professional help when you need sidewalk liftingis an assurance of quality. Professionals are trained to use specialist tools and products like PolyRenewal™ foam properly and effectively. As such, they can undertake sidewalk lifting and repair quickly and efficiently, thereby eliminating the risk of damage caused by improper use.
Furthermore, professionals can offer a service which is cost effective. This is because they have all the tools and products they need to hand. If you were to try to undertake this work alone, you would have to buy or hire the tools to properly lift the damaged sidewalk. This could be costly and will quickly add to your expenses, often causing the overall cost to be comparable to what a professional would charge. Of course, the final benefit of professional work is the convenience.
Concrete sidewalk lifting and repair is always the preferable option. Replacement is expensive and disruptive. However, there are limits as to what lifting services can do. This is why we always recommend that you act at the first signs of damage.
Lifting Segmented Sidewalk Slabs is Possible
Whether or not a shattered sidewalk can be lifted and repaired depends on the extent of the damage. If the slab has been broken into a few large pieces, it may be possible to lift the slab back into place and set it with polyurethane foam injections. This process may take slightly longer than if the slab was fully intact but simply sunken, however, it is possible.
Once all the pieces of damaged sidewalk have been lifted into place and properly set there, it will be possible to repair the appearance of your sidewalk too. This may require resurfacing, but once the work has been completed, your sidewalk will look as good as new.
Shattered Sidewalk Slabs Must Be Replaced
If the damage is incredibly severe, it is likely that the slab or sidewalk section in question will need to be replaced entirely. If the slab or sidewalk has been damaged to the point where there are about as many cracks as there are pieces of intact concrete, then it is likely that lifting processes will not be effective. The only way to know for sure is to ask a professional if they feel they can lift the sidewalk in question.
If they are unable to lift the sidewalk it will need to be replaced. This process will consist of three main stages: removal, replacement, setting. The removal of old concrete can be intensive and will require heavy equipment. Once this has been done, fresh concrete will be laid and cured. The setting process is the longest part of the undertaking. It could be days before the concrete is dry enough to set foot on.
Many things can potentially go wrong in a property, including cracked and sinking sidewalk slabs. It is important to deal with these issues while they are small, as they can be a symptom of something much worse.
Sidewalk Damage Is a Warning Sign
Your property’s sidewalks are representative of the health of your foundation as a whole. Despite not being subject to the same pressures, they are affected by the same issues. Sinking concrete slabs, sidewalks, and other areas are often a warning sign that the soil is weak or unstable. These are not the only issues that can cause sidewalk damage, but soil-based problems are the most common.
If the soil is struggling to deal with the weight of your property’s sidewalks, it is unlikely that it will be strong enough to properly support your foundation and the weight of your home. By paying attention to the warnings that more exposed concrete surfaces around your home show, you could save yourself serious time, money, and worry. If you investigate the issue fully at the first sign of damage, you could nip potentially serious foundation problems in the bud before they impact your whole home.
Damaged Sidewalks Are Dangerous
As well as being a huge red flag for your property’s foundation health, uneven or damaged concrete sidewalks around your home are dangerous. They present a serious tripping hazard to anyone who might use them but will have a disproportionate impact upon people who are already unsteady on their feet. Any elderly family members or visitors with mobility issues (or even vision problems) will be at an increased risk of serious incidents.
If the issues are also affecting your driveway, they could even start to damage your vehicle. Uneven, unstable, or damaged driveways that have potholes and craters in them will cause excessive wear and tear on your car’s suspension system. They will also impact the lifespan of your tires and could even deform your wheels if a car is left on the driveway for too long.
Just how much damage can settling do? As it turns out, it can do a lot. The biggest incentive toward fixing uneven concrete as soon as you notice early problem signs is the preservation of your concrete slabs. The longer you wait to lift your driveway’s slabs, the more likely it is that you’ll have to replace them.
- Settling and Breakage
Uneven concrete slabs will break over time. The way they break depends on the size of the slab, where the soil shrinkage occurs, and how much weight the settled concrete has to withstand. Settling is most likely to happen at the edges of the concrete slab. This is because most driveways end where the front yard begins and most front yards have plenty of grass and soil. The front yard absorbs a lot of water, which spreads to the soil under the driveway.
Because the edges are the weakest part of the slab, they are more likely to break off, especially if the slab is very large. Driveway slabs are especially at risk of breaking because of heavy cars. Most cars weigh about 4,000 pounds, which is a lot of weight to put on a slab with poor support.
- Preventing Breakage
There are a few things that can be done to prevent your driveway’s concrete from breaking. You’ll want to try prevention methods because broken concrete can be very difficult to repair, especially if it’s a piece off the edge. Cracks and breakage in the middle of the concrete can be patched up, but the cracks still allow water to seep through.
If you’re able to, avoid driving on the sunken slab or try to drive in such a way that only a small part is driven on. If you’re unable to cover the entire driveway, try to cover the slab that settled, at least until it’s time to lift it. Limiting the amount of moisture the slab is exposed to will prevent further settling and breaking.
Uneven concrete is all about the soil that’s used as a foundation. When it gives way or shrinks and loses its topsoil volume, a void remains and there’s nothing supporting the concrete. This is something that cannot be prevented, and very little can be done in the face of earthquakes and floods, but certain measures can be taken in order to prevent soil erosion and shrinkage.
- The Kind of Soil
The type of soil used as the foundation for the driveway impacts how severe and how quickly the settling is. Soils with big, grainy particles tend to wash away because water is able to pass through easily. It’s the kind of soil that doesn’t compact well, so it’s loose and shifty. It’s vulnerable to floods, snow, rain, and earthquakes.
Expansive soils (often clay soils) compact well, so they are denser and make for a much better foundation. However, because of the clay content in the soil, expansion occurs at a higher rate. The more the soil is able to expand, the more it’s able to shrink. Despite its swell-shrink capacity, contractors still use clay soils because it compacts easily. This makes it easier to manipulate and saves time when laying down the foundation.
- Soil Shrinkage
Soil shrinkage occurs when the moisture in soil dries out. As the moisture leaves the soil, the individual particles come together since there is nothing between them anymore. The soil becomes denser, but due to shrinkage, it loses surface volume.
Once the soil loses surface volume, there is nothing supporting the concrete. With the added weight of cars, snow, and people walking on the driveway, the concrete gives way and settles on the soil. Soil shrinkage is a naturally occurring process that can’t be controlled or predicted, but placing a canopy over the driveway will limit the concrete’s exposure to the elements and mitigate the damage done by soil shrinkage.
For decades, civil engineers have been trying to perfect the concrete lifting process by mixing different materials with cement and pumping that mixture under the slab. Even though these various mixtures have different advantages and disadvantages, the result is always the same: A short-term solution for a sinking slab that can sometimes make the situation worse. Luckily, we live in a time where we have the tools and the materials capable of providing homeowners with a long-term solution. That solution would be PolyRenewal™, our polyurethane foam injection procedure that permanently repairs sinking slabs. It’s a contemporary concrete lifting method that doesn’t disappoint, not only because of the results, but also because of its convenience.
What makes PolyRenewal™ so great is that it doesn’t have any of the downsides that makes mudjacking such a problematic method. The cement slurry in mudjacking eventually erodes with time as the particles get displaced due to water and expanding ice. The crack formed from this displacement makes it so that water permeates past the concrete and reaches the soil, which causes settling down the line. The polyurethane foam we use is impermeable, meaning that it doesn’t erode nor does it allow moisture to seep through and saturate the soil. The same amount of polyurethane foam that is injected under the slab will stay there for decades.
Polyurethane foam is also lightweight, perfect for the soft soil in Northern North Carolina, which shifts easily under too much weight. Cement is rough and heavy, so a mudjacking job does nothing but displace the soil further. Closed-cell polyurethane foam is dense enough to support heavy loads without disrupting the soil underneath. All in all, PolyRenewal™ is the superior concrete lifting option because it does what soil and cement cannot do: Provide the slab with a foundation that will not shift or wash away.
Why is Concrete Lifting Needed?
Do you have uneven concrete floors in your home? Have you noticed cracks or separations in doorways? If so, you may need interior slab lifting to restore your floors. Concrete slabs sink and settle over time and allowing them to go unrepaired can cause serious damage to your home. Your driveway, pool deck, or concrete steps can also experience settlement so it’s important to inspect all your concrete structures for damage.
Prevent Tripping Hazards
The common problem with damaged concrete is that these cracks and uneven surfaces create tripping hazards for you, your family, and any guests that may come to your home. Scraped knees or twisted ankles aren’t fun and can be avoided by repairing your concrete with PolyRenewal™.
Adds to Curb Appeal & Value
Let’s be honest, cracked, raised, and uneven driveways or sidewalks are not only unsafe, but they also are not attractive either. Many times, weeds can stem out of the cracks, or they can be caused by invasive tree roots, plus once one part begins to crack it will start to spread. This major eyesore can influence the cost of your home if you decide to sell. By repairing the damaged concrete around your home, you can add value and enhance the aesthetics of your property.
Prevents Other Problems in Your Home
When your home’s concrete slab is undergoing problems due to a foundation issue, then you will notice signs throughout your home. Windows or doors will have a difficult time opening or closing, cracks can occur in other parts of your home, and the cracks in the floor allow water to enter your home and cause water damage.
Common Concrete Lifting Tips & Mistakes
Like many problems, if your home’s concrete slab is cracking or sinking, the problem won’t remedy itself if you choose to ignore it. Unfortunately, in this case, it’s the complete opposite. The more you wait to fix these problems, the worse the cracks and unevenness will become, which will only cause worse problems for your home.
Helpful Tips for Concrete Lifting
- Inspect Your Foundation for Damage
Although many homeowners tend to notice concrete damage on the exterior surfaces and areas around their property first, there is also a likelihood that you’re dealing with damage to the interior as well. When the soil around your property shifts and settles it can cause foundation damage such as wall cracks, uneven floors, or bowing walls. These are all signs of concrete damage that need to be addressed as soon as possible. If the project is too large for PolyRenewal™ to fix, Tar Heel Basement Systems also offers a wide variety of foundation solutions for your exact situation.
- Check Frequently Used Concrete Areas
Like many surfaces in your home, your concrete structures are constantly exposed to wear and tear which can cause damage over time. Places such as your concrete porch steps, garage floor, driveway, sidewalk, and pool deck are all susceptible to damage. If you notice an uneven slab in your driveway or a crack in your pool deck, it’s time for repairs. These areas are prone to creating tripping hazards for your family and can even cause vehicular damage if severely progressed.
- Let The Experts at Tar Heel Basement Systems Repair Your Concrete
Don’t let damaged concrete around your home make you stressed. Choose concrete repairs from the experts at Tar Heel Basement Systems. Since 2003, we’ve been serving homeowners in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Stokes County, and helped them regain confidence in the concrete around their homes. By setting up a free inspection with us, you can feel good about knowing that our experts will thoroughly inspect the exterior and interior of your entire home to check for damage. Afterward, we’ll discuss the best solution in the industry for concrete lifting, PolyRenewal™ foam injections. This environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and quick curing solution makes it able to use your concrete the same day it is installed.
Mistakes to Avoid When Dealing with Concrete Damage
- Say No to Mudjacking
If the issue is sinking or settling slabs, mud jacking is a technique that’s been around for decades. The process involves mixing mud and concrete called “slurry” and pumping it under a sinking slab. The slurry becomes a hard, stable fill that is denser than soil, yet lighter than concrete. The process is sometimes called slab jacking or grout pumping. Mudjacking is messy, unpredictable, and temporary since the soil is likely to continue settling over time.
- Concrete Replacement Doesn’t Work
One of the biggest issues with replacing your concrete is that you aren’t addressing the reason why it failed to begin with. That’s because most concrete sinks and settles due to problems with the soil beneath. Excess moisture can cause soil to soften, and dry and warm temperatures can cause it to shrink. Soil washout can also occur if enough water is present, like during a major rainstorm or snowmelt. So, when you pour new heavy concrete slabs on old unstable soil, chances are they will sink and settle just like the old slabs did, bringing you right back to square one.
- Don’t DIY Repairs
Although DIY repairs can be tempting for homeowners regarding their costs and time-efficiency, they can also turn out to be disastrous. If you don’t have the proper knowledge, skills, or tools required to repair concrete, you may end up injuring yourself or furthering the damage. Concrete is also known to be extremely heavy and lifting it by yourself could be hazardous. It’s best to leave concrete repairs to the experts at Tar Heel Basement Systems, so contact us today to set up your free inspection.
Providing Expert Concrete Lifting in North Carolina
Pennsylvania trusts Tar Heel Basement Systems for reliable basement waterproofing, crawl space, foundation, and concrete repair services. Contact us for a free inspection!
Top Cities We Serve
*Disclaimer: “Concrete leveling” means the process by which cracked, uneven concrete is stabilized, and in many cases lifted, by means of PolyRenewal™ polyurethane foam. Tar Heel Basement Systems does not guarantee that PolyRenewal™ can make your concrete perfectly level.
Our Locations
3400 Walsh Pky, Suite 220
Fayetteville, NC 28311
611 Summit Ave, Suite 5
Greensboro, NC 27405
208 Millbrook Rd. Suite C
Raleigh, NC 27609
8005 Knightdale Blvd
Knightdale, NC 27545
2155 Enterprise Dr. NE
Leland, NC 28451
2910 Griffith Rd
Winston-Salem, NC 27103