Page 10 Fall Home Improvement 2026 Lincoln Daily News garage floors without the cost of full concrete replacement.” Sometimes more than polyurethane foam or slab raising is needed. For example, when the concrete is severely cracked or has structural damage, it may be necessary to fully replace the concrete. This process will take the longest since it involves removal of the concrete slabs and repouring of the concrete. Complete replacement starts by breaking up the concrete, which is often done with a jackhammer. The debris from the concrete will then be hauled off in trucks. Next the ground must be prepared for the new concrete, which is done by making sure the ground is level before placing new forms and preparing the gravel base for the concrete foundation. It is important to make sure compacted soil or drainage problems are alleviated, so the new concrete does not sink. The final steps involve pouring the new concrete into the forms then letting it cure. Curing is what takes the longest. As the foundation specialists say, “This curing process can take 24-48 hours before it can be walked or driven on, and several weeks to reach full strength.” Though full replacement takes the longest and is the most expensive, the new driveway, patio or sidewalk should last for years. In comparing the cost effectiveness of the methods, patching is the least expensive but may only be a temporary fix. Polyurethane foam installation and mudjacking are both less expensive than complete replacement and provide more of a long term solution for sunken or cracked concrete. The repair method will depend on the extent of the damage or sinking. When the work is done properly and underlying causes are addressed, not only will your driveway, patio or sidewalk be safer, but your curb appeal will also improve. [Angela Reiners]
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