Need to Fix Concrete Cracks in Indianapolis, IN? Get Tips from Local Experts

Are you tired of looking at ugly cracks in your sidewalk, driveway, or patio? Don’t reach for the caulking gun just yet; what seems like a quick concrete repair fix might end up doing more harm than good.

Cracked concrete can be an eyesore and, worse, a safety hazard. If you’re dealing with cracked concrete in New Augusta, IN, or anywhere in Indianapolis, you’re not alone. Concrete cracks are common in Indiana due to the unique climate and soil conditions. But before you rush to a DIY fix, it’s important to understand why cracks happen and the best long-term solutions.

1. Hairline Cracks

• Thin, surface-level cracks that may not seem concerning at first.
• Common in newly poured concrete as it cures and shrinks.
• If they remain small and don’t widen, they are mostly cosmetic.

3. Settlement Cracks

• Often wider and uneven, appearing when the ground beneath the concrete shifts.
• Can be caused by improper soil compaction or changing moisture levels.

4. Heaving Cracks

• Large, jagged cracks caused by freeze-thaw cycles, soil expansion, or tree roots.
• Often result in uneven slabs that cause tripping hazards.

• Freeze-Thaw Cycles: Our winters can be harsh. Freezing temperatures cause moisture in the concrete to expand and contract, leading to cracks.
• Clay Soil: Much of the area’s soil, including New Augusta, has a high clay content. Clay soil expands when wet and shrinks when dry, which can cause shifting and cracking.
• Heavy Traffic & Load Stress: Driveways, sidewalks, and patios endure a lot of weight and pressure, leading to wear and tear over time.
• Improper Installation: If the concrete wasn’t mixed or poured correctly, it’s more likely to crack sooner than expected.
• Tree Roots: Tree roots can push up from underneath, cracking concrete as they grow.

Now that you know the how, why, and what to look for, it’s time to fix concrete cracks. So, what’s the best technique for lasting results?

When it comes to fixing cracks in cement and addressing sinking concrete, concrete lifting with polyurethane injections is the most effective solution. This state-of-the-art technique provides lasting repair by stabilizing the underlying soil and preventing further movement.

This concrete repair solution involves drilling small, penny-sized holes into the affected concrete and injecting a two-part polyurethane foam mix underneath the slab. As the foam expands and hardens, it stabilizes the underlying soil, raises the concrete back to a more level position, and helps close concrete cracks.

• Addresses the Root Cause of Concrete Cracks: Many cracks occur due to soil movement or settling beneath the slab. Polyurethane foam stabilizes the soil, preventing future shifting and cracking.
• Prevents Further Damage: Unlike heavy cement-based mixtures that can add stress to unstable soil, polyurethane foam is lightweight and expands evenly, ensuring even lifting and lasting support.
• Waterproof and Erosion-Resistant: One of the biggest problems with other filler materials is washout. Water-resistant polyurethane foam does not break down or wash away, making it ideal for Indianapolis’s fluctuating weather conditions.
• Stronger and More Durable: Some materials are prone to shrinking and breaking down over time. Polyurethane foam remains structurally intact for decades, making it the most reliable long-term solution.
• Minimally Invasive & Clean Process: The installation requires smaller drill holes compared to other methods, and there’s no heavy equipment or messy slurry—just a clean and quick process.
• Fast Curing Time: Some methods take days to cure, but polyurethane foam sets within 15 minutes, meaning you can walk or drive on the repaired area almost immediately.
• Versatile Installation: Polyurethane injections for cracked concrete restoration can be used on many surfaces, including driveways, sidewalks, garage floors, patios, porches, pool decks, and commercial areas.

• Heavy Materials: The weight of the mixture adds more stress to already unstable soil, which can lead to further cracking and sinking over time.
• Prone to Washout: Since the material is water-based, it can erode and break down, especially in areas with moisture issues.
• Not as Precise: Mudjacking can lift concrete, but it doesn’t always provide an even or lasting result.
• Large Drill Holes: The process requires larger holes (about the size of a soda can), which can weaken the slab further.

If you’re dealing with cracked concrete or sinking slabs and need a lasting concrete repair, don’t settle for temporary fixes like mudjacking or resurfacing. Polyurethane injections are the most durable, long-lasting solution available.

Indiana Foundation Service has more than 30 years of experience with inspecting and fixing cracks in cement. Homeowners trust us to fix cracked concrete in New Augusta, In, and other areas around Indianapolis. Contact us today to schedule a free concrete inspection and get a no-obligation repair quote. We look forward to restoring your concrete’s appearance and safety!