In the 1930’s, concrete leveling became a popular solution to fix sunken concrete slabs. This method involves drilling small holes into the concrete slab and then bringing the level to the desired height. This method can be used to repair problems with concrete driveways, floors or other concrete structures. It is a faster, easier, and more economical solution to fixing concrete slabs than replacing it with new cement.
Sometimes concrete slabs may sink due to the natural expansion and contraction of the soil beneath it. This expansion and contraction causes the concrete slab to shift, and sometimes, even rock when it is driven over. Sometimes, a concrete slab will be able to settle and create holes, creating a void that needs immediate repair. Poor soil preparation and burrowing rodents could cause these holes. If these holes are left untreated, they can make even the best repairs to be unusable.
Cracks in concrete can also form. These cracks can lead to tripping hazards and water pooling. You might hear hollow sounds if you tap on them. If the cracks are deep the replacement of the slab might be necessary. However, concrete leveling might be a better option in terms of cost. Concrete Leveling Contractors Mentor will fix the gaps under the concrete slab, and could even be covered with flooring.
Another method of concrete leveling is using polyurethane jacking. Polyurethane, which is a polymer foam can be put into concrete slabs. However the polyurethane jacking process isn’t as durable as traditional grout, and so it’s not a great choice for concrete that holds heavy loads.
Another method to fix a sunken concrete slab is to take away the old concrete and replacing it with fresh concrete. This is typically the best option for concrete slabs with cracks that are small, but for larger slabs, this may not be the most effective option. Concrete slabs that are larger than 400 square feet will need to be removed and replaced. This will increase demolition costs.
Alternately, you can make use of self-leveling concrete. Self-leveling concrete is a cementitious mixture, which is blended with water to create a thick cement formula. The cement mixture is laid on top of concrete. Self-leveling concrete typically flows much more easily than concrete, which means it can be laid and leveled in less than an hour. It is sold as a tube or an overlay that can be placed over existing concrete. Self-leveling concrete comes in 50-pound bags. The average price per bag is $35.
In addition to using self-leveling concrete, you could also make use of Quikrete. Quikrete can be injected beneath concrete slabs to form a slurry that will raise the concrete slab back to its height at the time of its initial. Typically, Quikrete is used for projects outdoors, but it can be used as self-leveling.
