Concrete heaving — where slabs push upward creating uneven surfaces and trip hazards — is one of the most common concrete problems in Northern Illinois. The combination of deep frost penetration and clay soils makes our region especially susceptible to frost heave damage.
Understanding Frost Heave
When water in the soil freezes, it expands roughly 9% in volume. In our clay-rich soils, moisture is trapped rather than draining away, creating ice lenses that grow and push concrete upward. This is why driveways, sidewalks, and patios heave more along their edges where moisture enters from adjacent landscaping.
Permanent Repair Solutions
RCC Masonry & Concrete addresses heaving by removing the affected sections, excavating the frost-susceptible soil, installing free-draining gravel sub-base, and pouring new concrete with proper drainage. When tree roots are the cause, we install root barriers and may adjust the slab layout to avoid future conflicts.
Fix Your Heaved Concrete
Call (224) 441-5284 for a free assessment. We'll identify the cause of your heaving and recommend the most effective repair strategy.