Here's why hiring a professional who uses a urethane foam-based concrete-repair solution like PolyLevel® is almost always smarter and more cost-effective.

Surface fixes don’t solve the real issue

First, the cause of most concrete problems isn’t on the surface — it’s the soil underneath. As the ground settles, shifts or erodes, empty spaces form beneath the slab, causing it to crack or sink. DIY patching and resurfacing products may hide the damage initially, but they don’t address the underlying problem. PolyLevel does. This specialized polyurethane foam is injected beneath the concrete, expanding to fill voids, compacting loose soil and permanently lifting the slab back into place. And because it’s injected in small, controlled bursts, it’s easy to achieve the perfect lift.

 

Quick fixes don’t last

Concrete patch kits, caulk and resurfacing products can temporarily improve the appearance of damaged concrete, but they’re often no match for ongoing soil movement. These materials break down, shift or detach from the original slab over time — meaning you’ll be back at the store before long. By contrast, polyurethane foams are formulated to last indefinitely, offering a permanent solution to concrete problems supported by professional installation and, typically, warranty coverage.

 

DIY mudjacking is messy and risky

Some adventurous homeowners try to lift sunken concrete themselves using rented mudjacking equipment or low-cost grout mixtures. This process is not only physically demanding but also largely imprecise, which can lead to muddy, messy spills and blowouts. And because the mudjacking slurry is heavy, it can further compress already unstable soil. PolyLevel, by comparison, is extremely lightweight. Plus, it cures in as little as 15 minutes, reducing downtime and disruption.

 

Replacement is time-consuming and costly

Finally, some homeowners just give up on the idea of repair, opting for replacement instead. However, tearing out and replacing concrete is no small project. The cost of replacement can often be two to three times higher than foam leveling. And between demolition, forming, pouring and curing, you could be out of a driveway or walkway for days or weeks. With PolyLevel injection, you can use your concrete normally in just about a day.

 

DIY mistakes can hurt your home’s value

Lastly, if you don’t repair concrete for a living, it’s likely you’re not very experienced at it. Sloppy or mismatched concrete patches can drag down your home’s curb appeal. Worse, uneven surfaces can become a tripping hazard, opening you up to liability concerns.

 

Plus, home inspectors and potential buyers notice shoddy DIY fixes and may even question whether other repairs around your home have been done properly. Put simply, professional concrete leveling helps protect what is likely your largest investment.

 

The actual cost of DIY

DIY projects often seem cheaper at the outset, but the costs quickly add up when you factor in things like tools, materials, time and the likelihood of needing to redo the job. A professional PolyLevel installation gives you peace of mind, lasting results and a warranty — all without the guesswork and heavy lifting.

 

Choose a smarter solution

If you’re dealing with sinking, cracked or uneven concrete, we recommend you skip the patch kits and resurfacing tools and contact your local PolyLevel dealer for a free inspection instead. You’ll get a clear picture of what’s causing the problem and a proven solution that can save you time, money and, most importantly, stress.