Sidewalk Settlement Repair in San Francisco, CA

Tuesday, March 4th, 2025 by Mike Gray

Challenge

The Challenge: A homeowner in San Francisco, CA, noticed that their concrete sidewalk was sinking and separating from their home. The settlement had caused the concrete to shift, creating uneven surfaces that posed a tripping hazard. Concerned about safety and the long-term stability of their sidewalk, they sought a solution that would avoid the costly, messy, and time-consuming process of removing and replacing the concrete. Additionally, they wanted a long-term fix that would prevent further settlement and damage.

Solution

The Solution: The homeowner reached out to Foundation Repair of CA for a professional assessment of the underlying cause and a reliable solution. During the initial visit, Foundation Repair of CA provided a thorough evaluation, a free estimate, and a same-day proposed solution tailored to the homeowner’s needs.

To address the settlement and stabilize the sidewalk, Foundation Repair of CA implemented a two-step solution:

PolyLevel (Foam Injection):

PolyLevel was injected beneath the sinking concrete to lift and stabilize the affected areas.
Small port holes were drilled in a strategic grid pattern to allow for the precise injection of polyurethane foam.
The expanding foam filled voids beneath the concrete, lifting the sidewalk back to its original position while providing long-term stabilization.
Once the injection process was complete, the surface holes were patched and smoothed.

NexusPro (Joint Sealant):

NexusPro joint sealant was applied to the sidewalk’s expansion joints to prevent future water infiltration and damage.
The process included cleaning the joint, inserting a backer rod, injecting silicone sealant, and smoothing the surface with a sand finish.
The solution provided a long-lasting, flexible seal that accommodated natural movement in the concrete.

The Results: After the PolyLevel injection and NexusPro joint sealant application, the homeowner’s sidewalk was successfully lifted, stabilized, and sealed. The homeowner was relieved to have a cost-effective solution that restored the safety and functionality of their sidewalk without the disruption and expense of a full concrete replacement.

Thanks to Foundation Repair of CA’s expertise, the homeowner can now enjoy a level, hazard-free sidewalk with confidence that their investment is protected for years to come.

Project Summary

Product Installed: PolyLevel

Product Installed: NexusPro

Before image showing the sinking and slab separation both from the building and the adjacent slab.

Before image showing the sidewalk slab sinking below its original elevation.

Wide view before image.

After image showing the lifted and sealed connection between the slab and the building.

Additional after image showing the lifted and sealed connection between the slab and the building. This not only looks better, but protects the area from future water intrusion.