FAQs About Concrete Leveling
As concrete experts in Harrisburg, PA and surrounding areas, Midstate Concrete has worked with hundreds of homeowners and businesses. In handling their concrete needs, we have encountered questions of all kinds regarding concrete projects. Our team has compiled all the answers to the frequently asked questions about concrete leveling. Scroll down to learn more.
What causes the concrete to sink?
There is no definite answer to why concrete settles over time. But some of the common contributing factors are excessive moisture, drainage issues, and improper base compaction. The water underneath your concrete slabs can wash away the soil. This leaves voids or empty space in the soil, causing the concrete to settle. With nothing to support weight, your concrete surface will sink or cave.
To avoid this, maintain proper drainage near your concrete driveway or patio. The gravel base should also be compacted properly before concrete is poured.
What are the signs that I need concrete leveling services?
- Uneven surfaces
- Visible cracks
- Separation between the driveway or the sidewalk
- Damaged edges of the concrete platform
- Water pooling on the surface
How does your concrete leveling work?
Concrete leveling is a process used to fill voids under concrete slabs. First, the contractor drills hole into the concrete surface. Pressurized foam in liquid form will be pumped through the holes. The leveling material can help correct uneven concrete steps, sidewalks, and driveways.
How much does concrete leveling cost?
Compared to full-fledged replacement, concrete leveling is 50% less expensive. According to HomeAdvisor, concrete leveling projects can range from $300 to $2,500. Each project is unique, so the expenses can also vary depending on the size and number of slabs.
Since the existing concrete is not removed, you can save on demolition costs and labor expenses. Reach out to a trusted concrete contractor for a free estimate.
What are the benefits of concrete leveling?
- Can be completed within hours or days
- Reduces labor costs and job time
- Helps improve ground support
- Stabilizes low-density soils
- No need to remove old concrete surface
- Does not affect adjacent landscaping
- Lowers the possibility of work-related injuries and hazards
- Maintains the original appearance and color of the concrete
What kind of material is used for raising concrete?
Polyurethane foam is the material injected through the sunken concrete slab. When injected, this high-density foam expands to raise and stabilize the slab. It does not lose density or shrink, which makes it ideal for filling in the void.
How long does concrete leveling take?
Depending on the scope of the project, concrete leveling can be done within 24 hours or less. The entire procedure can take only a small portion of the day. The polyurethane foam itself takes at least 15-20 minutes to cure. In general, a freshly leveled surface is safe to use within just a couple of hours! After the clean-up process, you may walk on the surface already.
Will there be heavy trucks on my lawn?
Companies place the polyurethane material inside a trailer truck. The foam in liquid form is pumped through a long hose to avoid damaging your lawn. This way, the trailer unit is parked outside and meters away from your property. The non-invasive procedure will cause little to no disturbance to you and your neighbors.
What kind of maintenance work is needed?
The first thing you need to do is prevent water from going under the concrete slab. Always check your drainage systems so that you can avoid concrete shrinkage. This will keep the water away and ensure that the base is intact. To maintain your concrete, apply caulking in gaps and expansion joints to prevent water from getting beneath the slab.
Let’s Start Your Concrete Leveling Project
Searching for the right company to fix your uneven concrete? Midstate Concrete can do the work! We have knowledgeable experts in our team who will bring back the beauty to your concrete surfaces. Our team can raise settled concrete with less damage to your landscaping. When you work with us, we ensure long-lasting results that will boost your home value and curb appeal.
Aside from concrete leveling and mudjacking, we seal driveways, install sidewalks, and restore cracked surfaces. No matter what services you need, our company has top-notch concrete repair solutions for you. Call us today to schedule a free inspection. We also provide free estimates and recommendations.