Ways to Level Concrete: How to Decide What Is Best for You?

Living in St. Louis, you know how unpredictable weather can affect concrete surfaces like driveways, patios, and sidewalks. Over time, you might notice cracks, uneven spots, or areas where water pools after heavy rain. These issues may seem merely cosmetic. However, they could be signs of severe structural problems on the horizon. Fortunately, leveling concrete in St. Louis provides a lasting solution that will protect your home. Methods like mudjacking, polyurethane injections, and stone slurry grout can effectively address concerns about unlevel concrete. Let’s take a closer look at these techniques and help you determine which approach is best for your needs!

What Is Concrete Leveling?

Concrete leveling is used to correct uneven or sunken concrete surfaces on properties. It’s done by raising and leveling sunken or uneven concrete slabs, such as sidewalks, driveways, patios, and other similar areas. 

The purpose of concrete leveling is to restore them to their original position without the need for replacement. This option is typically less expensive and less time-consuming than completely replacing concrete slabs.

There are many reasons to consider concrete leveling for your St. Louis home. First, uneven concrete can create tripping hazards, leading to injuries and potential liability issues. By leveling these surfaces, you can make walkways, driveways, and other areas safer for pedestrians and, of course, your loved ones. 

Additionally, level concrete surfaces function better for their intended purposes. For example, a level driveway allows for proper drainage and easier vehicle access.

Beyond safety and functionality, leveling also enhances the overall appearance of your property. Level concrete improves curb appeal while potentially increasing its value. 

Addressing concrete issues early through leveling can prevent more severe problems from developing. Proactively leveling concrete can prevent extensive cracking or structural damage. 

Signs Your Concrete Needs Leveling

Over time, concrete surfaces can develop issues that indicate a need for leveling. Recognizing these signs early can help you address problems before they escalate. Being vigilant with concrete repair ensures your property remains safe and functional. 

Here are some common indicators that your concrete may need leveling:

• Cracks in the concrete: Visible cracks can appear as the ground shifts or settles, signaling that the surface is no longer stable. These cracks can worsen over time if not addressed.
• Uneven surfaces: If you notice areas of your concrete that are noticeably higher or lower than others, this unevenness can create tripping hazards and affect the usability of the space. Uneven surfaces can also lead to further damage if water collects in low spots.
• Pooling water: When water collects on your concrete instead of draining away, it indicates that the surface is not level. Pooling water can lead to erosion and increase the risk of slips and falls.

If you observe any of these signs, don’t hesitate to take action. Addressing concrete leveling issues promptly can save you time and money in the long run. Remember, there are effective solutions available to restore your concrete surfaces. Let’s explore these options. 

How to Level Concrete

Whether it’s your driveway, sidewalk, or patio, dealing with uneven concrete can be frustrating and potentially dangerous. While it might be tempting to tackle this issue yourself, leveling concrete is a complex task that requires specialized knowledge and costly equipment. A professional with expertise in concrete repair can assess your specific situation and recommend the most suitable method, ensuring a safe and long-lasting solution. Let’s explore three common concrete leveling techniques.

Polyurethane foam injection

Polyurethane foam injection involves drilling holes (about 3/4” in diameter) in the concrete and injecting a two-part polyurethane foam beneath the slab. The foam expands, filling voids and lifting the concrete to its original position. As the foam cures, it provides stable, long-lasting support for the slab. 

Polyurethane foam injection is quick, minimally invasive, and allows for immediate use after application. It’s lightweight, reducing the risk of further soil compression. 

However, it can be more expensive than other methods. Also, polyurethane foam injections may not be suitable slabs and for all soil types. You should speak to a concrete leveling specialist in St. Louis to determine if this option is right for your property. 

Mudjacking

Mudjacking involves drilling slightly larger holes (about 1 ½” diameter) in the concrete and pumping a slurry mixture of water, soil, and cement underneath. This mixture fills voids and lifts the slab. Once the desired level is achieved, the holes are patched with concrete. 

This option is generally less expensive than polyurethane foam injection. Its durability and cost-effectiveness make mudjacking an attractive and effective option for larger areas with heavier traffic such as driveways and garage slabs. 

However, mudjacking is more invasive than polyurethane foam injections. It requires longer curing times. Also, the added weight of the slurry can potentially cause further settling in unstable soils.

Stone Slurry Grout

This method combines aspects of mudjacking and polyurethane injection. A mixture of crushed limestone and water is pumped under the concrete through small holes. The slurry fills voids and lifts the slab, then hardens to provide stable support. 

Stone slurry grout offers a balance between cost and effectiveness. It’s less invasive than mudjacking but more economical than polyurethane foam. The limestone mixture is more stable than traditional mudjacking slurry. However, it may still require some curing time. As a result, stone slurry grout might not be suitable for all applications.

How to Choose the Right Method for Concrete Leveling in St. Louis?

When deciding how to level concrete, several factors should be considered to ensure the best outcome for your home. First, the severity of the problem is crucial. Minor settling might only require a simple fix, while more significant issues could necessitate a more immediate and comprehensive solution. 

The type of concrete structure also plays a role. Different methods may be better suited for driveways, sidewalks, or patios. 

Budget constraints are another important consideration. Costs can vary widely depending on the method chosen and the extent of the work required. 

Finally, long-term durability requirements should guide your decision. You want to be sure that the chosen method provides a lasting solution.

Concrete Leveling Experts in St. Louis

At Stratum Structural Systems, we understand that choosing the right concrete leveling method can be daunting. Our team of foundation and concrete experts is here to help guide you through the process. 

We assess each situation individually and recommend the most suitable method, whether it’s mudjacking, polyurethane foam injection, or stone slurry grout. 

Let us provide you with peace of mind and a solid foundation for years to come. Contact us today.