Thinking about doing something about that ugly, uneven concrete slab on your driveway, sidewalk, or patio? You’re not alone. Many homeowners face the challenge of uneven concrete, and lifting it can be a cost-effective solution.
In this article, we will delve deeper into the problem of uneven concrete, what causes it, how concrete lifting is done, and more. By evaluating the information in the sections below, you can better understand the financial and practical implications of concrete lifting, ensuring a smoother and more successful project.
How Much Does Concrete Lifting Cost?
The total cost of a concrete lifting project varies depending on several factors, including the size of the slab, the extent of the unevenness, and your geographical region. On average, you can expect to spend between $3 to $6 per square foot for this service, barring any project minimums which can range from $750 to $1500 depending on the contractor. But remember, cost is just one aspect of the decision-making process.
What Causes Concrete Slabs to Become Uneven?
Several factors can cause concrete slabs to become uneven. One of the most common causes is soil settlement. When the soil beneath the slab is not compacted correctly or is weak, it can shift and settle over time, leading to an uneven surface. This type of settlement can be worsened by heavy traffic, extreme weather conditions, and other factors that increase soil erosion.Another common cause of uneven concrete slabs is tree roots. Trees growing near concrete slabs can push and lift the surface as they grow, leading to unevenness. This type of damage can be especially problematic in areas with large, old trees, as the roots can grow deep and wide, causing significant damage to surrounding structures.
In areas with extreme weather conditions such as freezing and thawing cycles, the expansion and contraction of the concrete slab can also cause it to become uneven. When water in the ground freezes and expands, it can push up on the concrete slab, leading to cracking and unevenness. Additionally, the use of de-icing salts and chemicals can exacerbate this problem, accelerating the deterioration of the concrete and leading to more significant issues.
Poor construction practices, including inadequate reinforcement and improper curing, can also cause concrete slabs to become uneven. Also, if the soil is not adequately compacted before the slab is poured, the slab can settle into the ground and become uneven over time.
Downsides of Uneven Concrete
Uneven concrete slabs, commonly found on sidewalks and driveways, pose a multitude of downsides.
- Safety hazard – Uneven sidewalks, driveways, and patios are a major safety hazard as they can cause accidents, particularly for elderly people and those with physical disabilities. These accidents can lead to serious injuries such as broken bones, sprains, and head injuries.
- Property damage – Uneven concrete slabs can cause damage to vehicles that are parked or driven on them. This can result in costly repairs to tires, wheels, and suspension systems.
- Uneven concrete is ugly – Uneven concrete slabs can also affect a property’s aesthetic, making it look unkempt and unsightly, which can lower its market value. This is particularly important for homeowners who intend to sell their property in the future.
Concrete Slab Lifting Process
- Identify the soil voids – Before leveling concrete, your contractor must identify where the voids are. Identifying voids reveals which portions of the concrete need lifting and determines where the contractor should drill the holes.
- Drill holes in the affected slab – The next step is to drill holes through the concrete slab directly above the soil voids. Fortunately, polyjacking requires small holes that are easy to conceal later.
- Inject the polyjacking material – The contractor injects the polyjacking material through the holes and into the soil voids. The polyjacking material immediately begins to expand and lifts the slab.
- Patch the holes – After filling the voids, the next step is to patch the holes with a compound that closely matches the color of the slab.
- Wait 15 minutes – The last step in the concrete lifting process is to wait for the polyjacking material to cure. This usually doesn’t take more than 15 minutes.
Why Polyjacking is Better than Mudjacking
Polyjacking is a superior method of concrete lifting as compared to mudjacking due to several reasons. Firstly, polyurethane foam is a much lighter material than the mixture of mud and cement used in mudjacking. This makes polyurethane foam a more efficient and effective solution for lifting and stabilizing sinking and settling concrete slabs. It also reduces the chances of additional settlement or strain on the already weakened soil.
Secondly, polyjacking is a cleaner and more environmentally friendly solution than mudjacking. Mudjacking involves injecting a slurry of mud and cement into the ground, which can be messy and can even leak into surrounding soil or waterways. On the other hand, polyurethane foam is made of an eco-friendly material that does not harm the environment or contaminate water sources.
Another advantage of polyjacking is that it is faster and more efficient than mudjacking as it requires less time and manpower. The polyurethane foam is injected under the slab through small holes drilled into the affected area, and it expands to fill voids and lift the slab. This process is quick, and the slab can be used 15 minutes after the repair is complete, whereas mudjacking requires a much longer curing time for the mud mixture to set and harden.Additionally, polyjacking provides a more permanent solution to concrete settlement problems as it is a long-lasting and durable method. Once the polyurethane foam is injected, it creates a strong and stable base that can withstand heavy loads and traffic. The slurry used in mudjacking can erode, necessitating another repair.
The One Advantage for Mudjacking
The one advantage of mudjacking is that it’s a more affordable solution compared to polyjacking. Mudjacking typically costs around 50% less than polyjacking. However, as we’ve noted above, mudjacking has several cons and that’s why, today, it’s falling out of favor as the goto solution for concrete leveling.
Can You Lift Concrete on Your Own?
DIY concrete leveling may seem like a cost-effective solution, but it comes with several risks and drawbacks. Firstly, concrete leveling requires specialized tools and expertise, which most homeowners lack. Attempting to level concrete without the proper tools and knowledge can result in property damage. Secondly, the process of leveling concrete requires precision, and any errors can lead to uneven surfaces, which can pose a safety hazard. In addition, concrete leveling requires a deep understanding of the composition and behavior of concrete, which only professionals possess. Therefore, it is advisable to leave concrete leveling to the experts who possess the necessary skills, tools, and knowledge to get the job done right the first time.
Contact Us Today
If you’re dealing with uneven concrete in the Atlanta, GA metro area, contact us today to schedule a free evaluation and receive a repair estimate.
