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Case Study: Stabilizing Charlotte, NC’s Concrete to Prevent Sinkholes

In Charlotte, NC, erosion caused by water intrusion was compromising underground stormwater systems, creating dangerous sinkholes and threatening nearby infrastructure.

To address the issue, DryPro, a Groundworks company, applied 125 units of PolyRenewal™ across three sites.

Their certified team worked safely in confined spaces to seal water entry points and stabilize soil.


The Challenge

  • Persistent water intrusion washed soil into Charlotte’s stormwater system.
  • This led to severe erosion, sinkholes, and compromised underground structures.
  • Public safety, roads, sidewalks, and utilities were at risk without immediate action.

The Solution

  • Applied 125 units of PolyRenewal™ across three key underground sites.
  • Sealed active water entry points and stabilized soil around stormwater infrastructure.
  • Crew followed confined space safety protocols to complete the work efficiently and safely.

The Impact

  • The stormwater system is now sealed and reinforced, reducing future erosion.
  • Sinkhole risk has been eliminated in the affected areas.
  • City officials were pleased with the results and gained peace of mind knowing the system is secure.

Before Concrete Lifting:

Erosion in the Stormwater System

As shown in the underground structures, persistent water intrusion washed away the surrounding soil.

This erosion weakened the structural integrity of the stormwater system and left large voids in the soil—creating dangerous conditions that could lead to sinkholes.

Public Safety at Risk

As the soil continued to erode, the ground above became unstable. This instability put roads, sidewalks, and utilities in jeopardy, increasing the risk of sudden collapse. Without repairs, the situation posed serious threats to both city infrastructure and resident safety.

After Concrete Lifting:

Targeted PolyRenewal™ Injection

To stop active water intrusion and strengthen the surrounding soil, the team installed 125 units of Single Component PolyRenewal™ at three key underground locations.

This expansive polyurethane filled voids and sealed leaks, creating a watertight barrier that stabilized the compromised areas and stopped future erosion.

Specialized Confined Space Protocols

Because this project took place in narrow, underground environments, the crew followed confined space entry procedures for safety. Their advanced training ensured the repairs were completed efficiently and safely—even in low-oxygen, restricted-access areas—while minimizing disruption to the surrounding infrastructure.

Seeing the Positive Effects

The City of Charlotte can now rely on a stabilized stormwater system that is free from the threats of sinkholes and water intrusion.

The project’s success highlights the effectiveness of the materials and techniques used, demonstrating the team’s expertise in handling complex infrastructure challenges.

The PolyRenewal™not only sealed the problem areas but reinforced the soil, reducing the likelihood of future erosion.

City officials expressed satisfaction with the results, knowing these critical areas are now secure and protected from future issues.

Other Reviews for Our Concrete Lifting Near You

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We’ve had extensive work completed with Groundworks to weather proof our crawl space and fix some settling on our back patio. All work has…

We’ve had extensive work completed with Groundworks to weather proof our crawl space and fix some settling on our back patio. All work has been quick and well done and offered peace of mind. Peter S. has been super helpful when we’ve had concerns and responded quickly to check out areas of concern.

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I cannot say enough good things about this company and their staff. Our point-of-contact was Steve. He was an absolute top-notch…

I cannot say enough good things about this company and their staff. Our point-of-contact was Steve. He was an absolute top-notch professional. He exhibited top quality customer service and communication. He could explain the more technical parts in a way a layperson could easily understand. He was courteous, easy-going, and very conscientious inside and with home. If you think you might have structure issues, I highly recommend consulting with Grooundworks, and ask for Steve!

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Sal,Arturo,and Alan were very professional and courteous. The work they did was far and above our expectations. I would highly recommend…

Sal,Arturo,and Alan were very professional and courteous. The work they did was far and above our expectations. I would highly recommend this Company and this installation crew. The best. If I could give them 10 stars I would.

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Excellent quote and professionalism from Adam Chaney today. I appreciate his professionalism and explanation of various basements…

Excellent quote and professionalism from Adam Chaney today. I appreciate his professionalism and explanation of various basements waterproofing and void filling options!

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Chris, Moody Aiden are amazing. Did a fantastic job.

Chris, Moody Aiden are amazing. Did a fantastic job.

Need Concrete Lifting for Your Home?

Smiling worker in Groundworks uniform holding a level, standing in front of a company vehicle and houses.

Uneven sidewalks, cracked driveways, or sunken patios? These aren’t just eyesores—they’re safety hazards and signs your concrete is settling.

Groundworks Companies, including DryPro, which serves Greater Charlotte, specialize in lifting and leveling concrete using advanced polyurethane foam solutions that restore stability without the mess of replacement.

Schedule your free inspection today and let our local experts lift, level, and protect your concrete—for good.

Related Resources

Concrete Lifting FAQs

Polyurethane injection is fast, non-invasive, and capable of supporting heavy loads, making it perfect for industrial and commercial needs.

It’s a no-excavation, fast-installation solution that levels floors efficiently and cost-effectively.

It’s fast, strengthens the soil base, minimizes downtime, and eliminates the need for costly excavation. 

Disclaimer: “Concrete leveling” means the process by which cracked, uneven concrete is stabilized, and in many cases lifted, by means of PolyRenewal™ polyurethane foam. Groundworks does not guarantee that PolyRenewal™ can make your concrete perfectly level.