Sunken concrete slabs are a common problem for homeowners. Not only are they unsightly, they also create trip hazards and decrease property value. Thankfully, concrete slab lifting offers a practical solution to level concrete.
Dealing with uneven concrete around your home can be a real headache. Thankfully, concrete leveling is often a better option than replacing the entire slab.
Why Concrete Slabs Sink
Several factors contribute to sinking concrete slabs. A common culprit is soil erosion.
Over time, water washes away the soil beneath a slab, creating voids that cause settling concrete. Poor soil compaction during construction also leads to sinking. If the soil isn’t properly compacted, it settles under the concrete’s weight, causing unevenness.
Another factor is expansive soil. This soil type swells with water and shrinks as it dries, disrupting the slab’s foundation.
How Concrete Slab Lifting Works
Concrete slab lifting involves injecting a material beneath the settled concrete to raise it. This material fills voids and stabilizes the slab. There are a few concrete leveling methods available.
Mudjacking
Mudjacking, also known as slabjacking, is one of the original concrete leveling methods. This process injects a slurry of cement, soil, and water beneath the settled slab.
High pressure pushes the mix underneath, filling the voids. However, mudjacking’s heavier slurry increases stress on the surrounding soil, potentially causing future issues. The stone slurry grout used also takes several days to fully lift concrete for foot traffic.
Polyurethane Foam Injection
Polyurethane foam injection offers a modern alternative to mudjacking concrete. This method uses expanding polyurethane foam. The foam expands as it’s injected, filling every gap for stability.
Another advantage is the quick setting time – traffic can resume in minutes. However, the specialized equipment required for polyurethane foam concrete increases the cost.
Choosing the Right Method
Choosing between mudjacking with its stone slurry and polyfoam injection requires balancing several factors.
Budget, timing, and potential future issues all play a role. Consider your project’s specifics and consult a professional to determine the best leveling method.
The Concrete Slab Lifting Process
Despite the chosen leveling method, the general process follows similar steps.
First, small drill holes are made in the sunken slab. The lifting material, be it slurry grout concrete or polyurethane foam concrete, is injected through these holes, filling voids and lifting the concrete.
Once level, the holes are patched. The concrete surface is then inspected for cracks, ensuring the injection pressure didn’t cause damage.
Minor existing cracks might widen slightly from the lifting process. In rare cases, new separations may appear as underlying support issues are resolved. This occurs as the prior subtle slant from settled columns below the slab is leveled out fully by injecting the void that was present from the day it was poured.
Cost of Concrete Slab Lifting
The cost of concrete slab lifting varies based on factors like the area’s size, the chosen method, and the location.
It’s generally more affordable than full slab replacement, often costing half the price. Request quotes from multiple contractors to compare pricing.
DIY vs. Professional Concrete Slab Lifting
While DIY concrete slab lifting might seem tempting, it’s generally best left to professionals. They have the expertise, experience, and equipment for efficient and effective concrete leveling.
Incorrect DIY attempts can cause further damage and exacerbate existing problems. Hire a qualified contractor for reliable results and long-term solutions for your settled slab.
Preventing Future Concrete Slab Issues
Even after concrete slab lifting, address underlying issues that caused the sinking. This may involve improving drainage or fixing plumbing leaks that saturate the soil.
Proper maintenance helps prevent future sinking. Regular inspections and addressing potential problems promptly will protect your concrete slabs. Ensure proper grading and drainage to divert water away from your concrete.
Conclusion
Concrete slab lifting is a cost-effective way to repair sunken concrete slabs and enhance your property’s safety and curb appeal. It fixes tripping hazards caused by uneven surfaces. Whether you choose mudjacking or polyurethane foam injection, understanding the process, costs, and contractor selection is crucial.
Choosing an experienced contractor is key to successful concrete leveling. Find the right professional to restore your concrete slabs to their original condition. By investing in professional concrete slab lifting, you’re investing in the long-term stability, appearance, and safety of your home. The service will restore your settled concrete.
