Sunken sidewalks and uneven driveways create trip hazards and drainage problems, putting people and property at risk. If you’ve ever wondered, “How long does concrete lifting take?” you’ve come to the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about concrete leveling in Wichita, KS, including what happens during the process and what to expect on the day of the job.
What Happens During the Concrete Lifting Process
The concrete lifting process follows a clear sequence. Understanding more about concrete lifting helps explain why the process moves so quickly and produces long-lasting results. Technicians first assess settled concrete slabs, checking for gaps, cracks, and the extent of any shifting. They identify where they need to use a polyurethane foam injection and clear the work area. Then they drill small holes into the concrete, 3/8 of an inch in diameter.
A nozzle goes into each hole, and technicians pump high-density foam into the void below. The foam expands, fills the voids, stabilizes the soil beneath, and lifts the concrete back into position. It hardens within about 15 minutes. Technicians monitor the lift carefully to avoid raising the slab too high.
Once the slab reaches the right height, technicians patch the holes with grout and clean up the work area. The entire injection phase for a standard slab moves quickly because the foam sets fast and requires no heavy machinery.
How Long Does Concrete Lifting Take?
Most concrete lifting projects wrap up in a single visit. Smaller slabs, like a patio or garage apron, typically take under two hours. A standard driveway usually wraps up in around three hours.
Larger jobs involving multiple slabs can take four to six hours. A few variables influence the timeline:
- Size of the area being lifted
- Soil condition beneath the slab
- Size of the voids that need filling
- Slab accessibility
Curing Time and Return to Use
Polyurethane foam cures quickly, so in most cases you can walk on the repaired surface almost immediately and drive on it within an hour or two.
The structural-grade polyurethane foam typically used adheres to the concrete and the soil beneath it, creating a stable base beneath the slab. Because the foam resists water, the repair provides a stable, long-lasting solution that helps reduce the risk of settling and erosion.
Concrete Raising vs. Full Replacement
Concrete raising saves significant time compared to tearing out and replacing a slab. Replacement involves demolition, debris removal, forming, pouring, and waiting days before you can use the surface. Concrete leveling skips all of that.
The process also leaves landscaping untouched, keeps heavy equipment off the surrounding area, and avoids excavation entirely. Lifting the existing slab instead of replacing it preserves a consistent look across the surface and protects the soil structure underneath.
Professional Concrete Repair in Wichita, Kansas
Still wondering how long concrete lifting takes? Most projects wrap up in just a few hours, but several factors affect the overall timeline. Whether you notice signs of damaged concrete on your driveway, sidewalk, or patio, our team can assess the damage and recommend the right repair approach.
Call Arise Concrete Leveling at 316-867-6565 for a free estimate today.
