Concrete leveling is a fast and cost-effective way to repair uneven concrete surfaces, but like any other repair job, it is not immune to problems. Acme Concrete Raising & Repair is an expert at leveling concrete and has worked hard to develop solutions to these problems. In this article, we will discuss the top four problems and the best ways to deal with them.
#1 Problem: Raised Slabs Sinking Again
Concrete slabs can re-settle after being lifted. It’s important to understand that simply raising a slab back to its original position does not equal raising it properly. Raising the concrete is the simple part; raising a slab in such a way that it stays raised is entirely another thing. Also, getting a few simple things right after lifting is complete can be crucial to a lasting repair. But first, please know that recently installed concrete may shift for up to 10 years after construction. If the concrete is less than ten years old, it may still settle after being raised. Here are the best ways to guard against re-settlement:
- Any concrete raising project can only be as good as the material used to raise the slab. ACME provides the best possible material by using water-resistant, high-density polyurethane, meeting D.O.T. requirements for raising and supporting highways.
- ACME has developed procedures that ensure slabs are not only raised, but properly supported as well. Once a slab is raised, many companies fail to perform injections that provide the support needed for a long-lasting repair.
- ACME always recommends that property owners ensure the exposed sides of the concrete slabs are backfilled with soil, sod, or landscaping materials to help prevent water from going beneath the slab.
ACME always recommends property owners reroute downspouts and grade areas to ensure water drains away from concrete surfaces. These measures help prevent damaging erosion that can be the primary cause of concrete sinking.
#2 Problem: Cracks in Concrete Surfaces
It’s an unavoidable fact: a large amount of force is applied to slabs to raise them. Unfortunately, cracks and breaks in concrete slabs can occur during or after concrete leveling. Pre-existing cracks may also worsen during the raising process. These cracks are typically small “hairline” cracks, but larger cracks can also occur. In some situations, there is no way to know if or how many cracks may form or worsen.
How we prevent or minimize cracks and breaks from happening
- The first step to a successful lift involves a careful assessment of each slab. Our technicians choose strategic locations for each injection site. By leveraging the strongest dimensions of the slab, we reduce the amount of stress placed on the concrete during lifting.
- Next, we continually move injections across the slab to gradually and evenly distribute the lifting force of our material. Contractors that get in a hurry crack slabs.
- Slabs being lifted may be bound up against adjacent slabs or structures. Binding can cause additional stress to the slab being lifted. ACME technicians carefully monitor these situations and use specialty equipment to free up slabs as needed.
- Finally, ACME crews have the equipment and materials to professionally fill and seal cracks as part of the lifting project. Filling and sealing keeps water from penetrating the cracks and improves the overall esthetics of your concrete surfaces.
#3 Problem: Hidden Issues in Concrete Leveling Repairs
Raising a slab can be rather straightforward; however, that’s not always the case. Sometimes, things are not what they seem on the surface. Unconventional methods of construction and unexpectedly large voids under the concrete slab can make concrete leveling repairs more complicated, time-consuming, and expensive. These problems may not be obvious to many companies upon inspection. These are some ways ACME works to manage these situations:
- ACME differs from most other providers. When we estimate a project, we send a well-seasoned, certified technician that knows what it takes to raise concrete. Our experienced estimators are accustomed to identifying potential issues, and are better able to provide practical solutions. When getting estimates for concrete repair, you need an expert, not a commissioned salesperson.
- Much of our success in problem resolution is due to maintaining our primary goal: customer satisfaction. We work hard to find reasonable solutions to problems that limit any deviations from the original project expectations. We win, when you win!
- Communication is key on any concrete raising project. You can be certain that our crews are great communicators and very personable! If we encounter anything that was not originally expected, we take as much time as needed to communicate these issues and develop a suitable resolution.
Conclusion
Acme Concrete Raising & Repair is an expert at solving concrete leveling problems. We’ve been specializing in polyurethane concrete raising & stabilization longer than any other contractor in the Chicagoland area. We take a careful approach, and use the highest quality equipment and materials to ensure a long-lasting repair. By prioritizing communication and customer satisfaction, we achieve our goal of exceeding expectations.
