How To Use Concrete Leveling To Repair Damaged Concrete
Concrete is one of the strongest, most durable building materials available. However, it’s not invincible and can become damaged over time. Fortunately, catching and fixing concrete damage early on can prevent severe, costly (and unusable) problems down the road. One popular concrete repair method is leveling.
Concrete Leveling Contractors Northfield used correctly, leveling can help lift sunken or uneven concrete slabs back up to their original position, and restore functionality to the affected area. It can also repair concrete cracks and other surface imperfections that may be causing damage to the concrete.
The key to successfully leveling concrete is thoroughly cleaning and preparing the surface before beginning. First, sweep the entire area and vacuum it to remove dirt, dust, debris, or other contaminants that could impede the bonding process of the leveling compound. If your concrete is stained, use commercial oil stain removal products or try scrubbing the area with a scrub brush to remove any remaining staining.
Once the concrete surface is clean, it’s important to look for any high or low spots on the slab that need to be leveled. Using a bubble level or a simple floor laser can help identify these problem areas. You should also inspect the concrete for signs of damage or movement like settling, cracking, or expansion and contraction that may have occurred over time. If the concrete is showing signs of movement, it’s important to consult a professional for concrete leveling before these problems worsen.
Traditionally, repairing severely damaged concrete that’s seemingly beyond repair requires demolishing and repouring the concrete. This process can be expensive and inconvenient, as it takes days for the new concrete to cure properly. However, leveling techniques such as PolyRenewal provide a faster, more cost-effective alternative.
Mudjacking is a concrete leveling technique that involves pumping a slurry mixture of mud, water, and Portland cement underneath the sunken or uneven concrete to lift it. While effective, this method is labor intensive, doesn’t last as long as other options, and can be damaging to surrounding landscaping and soil.
Slab jacking with foam uses the same methodology as mud jacking to fill and lift concrete, but with polyurethane rather than slurry. This option is less invasive than traditional mud jacking, lasts longer, and is more environmentally friendly.
Concrete leveling is a great choice for homeowners and business owners who need to repair sunken or uneven concrete slabs. It’s a quick, affordable, and highly effective solution that can be carried out in as little as 24 hours. With no demolition or weeks of waiting for new concrete to cure, leveling is the perfect choice for a wide range of applications from pool decks and patios to A/C unit pads and driveways. To get started, request a free inspection and onsite cost estimate from your local concrete experts today.