Why Does Concrete Sink?

Why Does Outdoor Concrete Sink?

Void in concrete sidewalk

Soil washout can result in empty space beneath your concrete slab, unable to support it. This can lead to cracks and sinking over time.

Concrete is heavy! When the soils underneath a concrete slab are unable to support its weight, the slab will sink.

If part of the concrete slab is supported by soils and other sections are not, the unsupported pieces may crack away from the other section and result in unlevel concrete.

Midwest Foundation Repair can inspect the condition of your concrete slab during an on-site estimate. Call us today to schedule a free quote in Ames, Des Moines, Waterloo and surrounding areas.

Primary causes of sinking outdoor concrete

    1. Soil Shrinkage, Compaction & Settling

      A hoofprint in the mud, showing compacting soils

      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.


  1. Washout Of Soils

    Water washing away mud and sediment in rainy weather.

    The soil that is underneath your driveway, patio or concrete steps may not necessarily remain there to provide adequate support for the concrete element.

    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.

Want a fast solution? Learn more about our PolyLevel® installation in Iowa

The good news is that you don't have to live with sunken concrete anymore! Check out our before and after photo gallery to illustrate what PolyLevel® concrete lifting can do for your property!

We would be happy to provide you a free evaluation and cost estimate for PolyLevel® concrete repair in Urbandale, Ankeny, Marshalltown, West Des Moines, Fort Dodge, Cedar Falls, Ottumwa and the surrounding areas.

Looking for a price? Get a no cost, no obligation free estimate.

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Midwest Foundation Repair
9850 Douglas Ave Suite 100
Urbandale, IA 50322
1-515-992-7046
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