Concrete Leveling: Understanding the Basics, Benefits, and Costs

By Josh Macy / Published on January 19, 2024 /

Uneven and sunken concrete sidewalk

Concrete leveling is an affordable and efficient method for repairing uneven or sunken concrete. It eliminates the need for extensive renovations. Rather than dealing with the pain and hassle of concrete replacement, you can have your concrete lifted and leveled within hours. In this article, we’ll discuss why concrete sinks, how to fix it, the benefits, and compare Mudjacking to PolyLevel.

What Causes a Sunken or Cracked Floor?

  1. Soil Erosion: Over time, soil erosion beneath concrete surfaces can lead to settling and sinking.
  2. Poor Compaction: Inadequate soil compaction during construction can contribute to sunken concrete slabs.
  3. Hydrostatic Pressure: Water in soil creates pressure, making soil move and causing slabs to shift.
  4. Freeze-thaw cycles can make soil expand and contract, which affects the stability of concrete in certain regions.

Learn more about the causes and impacts of sunken and cracked concrete here.

Concrete Leveling and Its Benefits:

  1. Concrete leveling is a cheaper option than replacing whole concrete slabs, making it cost-effective.
  2. This process is quick, non-invasive, and efficient, minimizing disruption to the surrounding area and reducing project timelines.
  3. Polyurethane foam leveling is convenient because it doesn’t require demolition or create a mess like mudjacking or concrete replacement.
  4. The concrete becomes stable after leveling, creating a long-lasting and reliable solution with no uneven concrete slabs.

Unsure if you need concrete leveling? We’ve got your back! Reach out for a free estimate.

How the Concrete Leveling Process Works

Concrete Leveling With PolyLevel

PolyLevel is a modern concrete leveling product that is better than mudjacking or stone slurry in many ways, including:

  • Lightweight and Durable. PolyLevel is lightweight, minimizing additional stress on already compromised soils and is highly durable.
  • Precise Lifting. The expanding foam allows for precise control over the leveling process, ensuring accuracy.
  • Water-Resistant: PolyLevel is water-resistant, making it ideal for areas prone to moisture.
  • Quick Cure Time: PolyLevel cures quickly, allowing for minimal downtime and swift restoration of the concrete surface.

What Does Concrete Leveling Cost?

The price of concrete leveling changes depending on settlement, lift needed, product choice, and time of year. On average, concrete leveling saves 70-80% on cost versus replacement. Often, the main reason for a sunken slab needs extra work to stop it from happening again.

  1. Drainage and Downspouts: Adding proper drainage can prevent issues like soil erosion and washout, which cause sunken slabs. 
  2. Concrete Repair Caulking: Concrete repair and joint sealant for concrete surfaces is a great way to prevent future erosion.

Pro Tip: Ensure that your inspection is thorough, and your representative explains the scope of the project. First, determine whether the proposal is for the short or long term. Then, take into account the cost and desired outcomes of the available options.

Is Concrete Leveling Right For you?

A LevelUp technician injecting PolyLevel into a concrete slab

Knowing the reasons, advantages, and new products like PolyLevel helps property owners make informed decisions about improving their spaces. PolyLevel is a product that can help strengthen foundations.

Now that you understand a little more about concrete leveling, you’re closer to deciding if it may be right for you. At LevelUp Concrete Solutions, we have many products to help homeowners and business owners fix their concrete. As experienced Foundation SupportWorks partners, we can fix your sidewalk, driveway, pool decks, or concrete surfaces. 

Get a free consultation with our concrete experts by visiting our website at https://golevelup.com/free-estimate/. Once there, you can book a call with our LevelUp team.

Newsletter Sign-Up

Subscribe to our email newsletter and get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox.

Newsletter Sign-Up

Latest Articles