Restoring Safety and Serenity at a Shelocta, PA

Challenge

In the welcoming town of Shelocta, PA, a cherished church was facing a growing hazard. The concrete pathways surrounding the building had begun to sink, crack, and gap — creating dangerous tripping hazards for parishioners and visitors. Beyond aesthetics, the problem posed a real safety risk for a place meant to be a sanctuary. The local Shelocta soil series, while well-drained and moderately permeable, is formed from colluvium and residuum derived from shale, siltstone, and sandstone. These soils are often found on concave slopes and benches, which can be prone to settling over time. With the area’s moderate precipitation and freeze-thaw cycles, the underlying soil movement had contributed to uneven settling beneath the concrete slabs. It was clear that simply patching the surface wouldn’t be enough — the church needed a long-term, structural solution that addressed both the cause and the visible damage.

Solution

When the church contacted Keystone Basement Systems, we knew this project required precision, durability, and respect for the property’s role in the community. Our team designed a plan using two proven products: PolyLevel® and NexusPro®.

• Step 1: Stabilization & Lifting – Small, minimally invasive holes were drilled into the affected slabs, and PolyLevel foam was injected beneath them. As the foam expanded, it filled voids in the soil, gently lifting and leveling the concrete back to its original position.

• Step 2: Protection & Sealing – Once the slabs were stabilized, we applied NexusPro joint sealant to all cracks and gaps. This flexible, weather-resistant material prevents water infiltration, reducing the risk of future damage from soil erosion and freeze-thaw cycles.

The result was a smooth, level walkway that not only improved safety but also restored the church’s welcoming appearance. More importantly, the repair ensured a lasting solution that will stand up to the region’s soil conditions and climate.