Concrete Lifting: A Comprehensive Guide
Common concrete problems like settled sidewalk slabs, uneven front steps, and irregular driveway panels pose risks to health and property because they can cause trip hazards and drainage issues. Fortunately, concrete lifting offers a solution that restores high-traffic surfaces without a complete concrete replacement. In this article, let's find out what concrete lifting is and how it works.
What Is Concrete Lifting?
Concrete lifting, also known as “concrete leveling,” involves injecting material beneath a sunken or settled concrete slab to raise it and fill the empty spaces beneath. This technique is perfect for leveling driveways, repairing sidewalks, and restoring recreational concrete slabs, providing an effective solution for settlement issues. Professional concrete lifting services help homeowners and property owners avoid a concrete replacement while enhancing the appearance and safety of their properties.
How Does Concrete Lifting Work?
Skilled concrete technicians create channels in the concrete and use specialized equipment to lift and level the existing concrete slab. Once they reach the desired height, the concrete’s surface undergoes refinishing, including crack-filling, to restore its visual appeal without needing new concrete.
Despite the straightforward process of concrete lifting, it requires expertise and the right tools to address safety hazards. The three main steps that concrete technicians take for successful concrete leveling include:
- Drilling holes in affected concrete slabs
- Pumping compounds through the drill holes to fill voids and create backpressure
- Patching drill holes once the concrete is in position
Types of Concrete Lifting
Professional concrete repair services use various techniques when lifting concrete. Depending on the application, these procedures use different materials and create varying drill-hole sizes. Discover the most popular concrete leveling methods used by concrete technicians below.
Polyurethane Foam Concrete Lifting
The polyurethane foam concrete leveling method proves efficient and effective. Concrete technicians begin the process by piercing the existing concrete with drill holes of about ⅝” in diameter. Then, they inject high-density liquid foam beneath the slab, which expands to fill voids and exerts pressure to raise the uneven concrete.
Once the foam has hardened, technicians will seal the drill holes to complete the repair. The polyurethane foam requires only an hour of curing time, making the concrete accessible soon after the repair.
This concrete lifting process is best suited for minor lifts because the materials are expensive. It is also ideal for decorative features. Homeowners should consider those factors when deciding whether to use polyurethane foam leveling for settling concrete.
Stone Slurry Grout Concrete Lifting
Stone slurry grout leveling is a method that utilizes natural materials to raise sunken concrete slabs to their original position. Technicians will pierce the uneven slabs and gradually pump a stone slurry underneath. This compound material fills the void below the slab and evenly applies pressure to lift it.
The slow pumping process ensures precise management, enabling gradual, controlled lifting of the concrete back to an even position. This technique requires drilling holes approximately 1” in diameter, which are filled with a compound consisting of pulverized limestone, water, and sometimes Portland cement (a fine gray powder used in concrete).
Once the technician finishes lifting concrete, residents may walk on it. For vehicles, homeowners should wait 24 hours for proper curing. Stone slurry grout leveling offers enough versatility for interior or exterior use and proves cost-effective for larger projects.
This type of concrete leveling work is ideal for locations that require gradual, precise elevation adjustments, such as pool surroundings or A/C unit pads. It also meets high-strength demands in areas that have weight-bearing posts or experience heavy vehicle traffic.
Mudjacking
Most homeowners see “mudjacking” and “concrete leveling” as synonymous, but mudjacking represents one effective method among several. Mudjacking includes drilling holes approximately 2” in diameter, which are filled with sand, mud, water, and Portland cement.
Concrete technicians use this mixture to lift the affected concrete, pumping it through the slabs’ drill holes at high speed and pressure. This process causes the concrete slab to level out before sealing the holes. Immediate foot traffic is permissible after the lifting process, but vehicles should avoid the work area for 24 hours.
Mudjacking is suitable for situations where budget is the primary concern or no other concrete raising options are available. Some experts also recommend using it when the area requiring concrete lifting sits more than 200-300 feet from the road or driveway.
Reasons to Use Polyurethane Concrete Lifting
Polyurethane concrete lifting is excellent for repairing sidewalks, walkways, patios, driveways, pool decks, stairs, garage floors, and other outdoor surfaces. See why professional concrete service companies recommend polyurethane foam.
Rapid Results in Just One Hour
Concrete technicians can restore sidewalks in less than 30 minutes with polyurethane foam injections. This concrete lifting method is efficient and ensures the concrete surfaces are ready for use within an hour of application. It saves more time than traditional methods, like mudjacking or concrete pouring.
A Lasting Fix for Sunken Concrete
Polyurethane concrete lifting addresses the loose soil issues, providing a long-term solution to sunken concrete. This concrete lifting style stabilizes the soil, levels the concrete slabs, and eliminates any tree root problems. Concrete surfaces will stay level and stable for years.
Minimal Disruption, Maximum Results
Polyjacking requires tiny, strategically placed holes for foam injection, minimizing damage to the concrete. Since concrete technicians do not use heavy equipment or noisy machinery, polyurethane lifting offers a less disruptive solution than traditional methods. It also allows residents to maintain daily routines while restoring the concrete surfaces.
Lightweight Foam, Heavy-Duty Results
The polyurethane foam used in concrete lifting is lightweight and incredibly strong, providing stable support without adding excess weight to the slabs. Unlike the traditional concrete leveling methods, which might worsen sinkage due to the extra weight of the materials, polyjacking ensures lasting stability without risking further damage.
Effective Erosion Protection
Polyurethane foam's waterproof, inert composition makes it an ideal solution for preventing soil erosion under concrete surfaces. Polylift will safeguard the soil against washout by sealing the bedrock and increasing its water resistance. This lifting method ensures long-term stability and integrity of concrete structures.
Signs That Concrete Lifting Is Needed
Various signs tell homeowners to level specific areas of their concrete. A quick concrete lifting project will prevent trip hazards and save homeowners from the hassle of concrete replacement. Property owners should seek professional lifting services if they notice any indications of uneven concrete.
Cracks as Warning Signs
Concrete cracks are unmistakable indications that the slabs may require lifting. They often signal underlying issues such as settlement, chemical reaction, corrosion, or poor construction. These cases require prompt concrete lifting to restore stability and prevent further damage to the property.
Addressing Uneven Surfaces
Uneven concrete is a common issue homeowners encounter when one end of a slab settles while the other remains in place. This imbalance affects the appearance and structural integrity. Concrete lifting offers a solution to realign and level surfaces, restoring functionality and visual appeal.
Managing Displaced Concrete Edges
Noticeable shifts in concrete edges suggest underlying movement, which might lead to various problems over time. Whether the displacement is vertical or horizontal, homeowners should address it to prevent further deterioration.
Impact of Foundation Issues
Foundation problems often extend to other concrete surfaces throughout the property. Issues like mud instability or structural shifts can lead to substantial damage. Addressing foundational concerns will preserve the condition of the entire property.
Guarding Against Erosion Damage
Various factors may accelerate erosion beneath concrete, such as excessive rain and flooding, which compromises its support and leads to cracks and structural issues. Regular inspection and timely intervention will mitigate erosion damage, safeguarding the property against costly repairs.
FAQ
Is concrete lifting worth it?
Concrete lifting work is worth it if the homeowner or property uses professional concrete leveling services. It is a cost-effective solution with low material and labor costs. Each type of concrete repair method will enhance the durability of a slab.
How long does concrete lifting last?
Concrete lifting lasts five to 20 years, depending on the materials used by concrete technicians. Polyurethane lifting lasts much longer than mudjacking and stone slurry grout leveling. It also requires less curing time, making it a homeowner’s best bet.
How is concrete lifting done?
Concrete lifting is done by drilling holes in the affected concrete and injecting the material underneath to fill voids. When leveling concrete, the injected materials will slowly lift the slab. Once it reaches the desired height, concrete technicians will seal the holes.
Is foam jacking better than mudjacking?
Foam jacking is better than mudjacking because it uses lightweight materials, requires fewer injections, and has a faster curing time. Polyurethane foam is a long-lasting material, making it the most popular concrete leveling option.
Conclusion
Now that you appreciate how the pros level concrete, you can decide which method is best for you. Avoid personal injuries by leveling your garage floor, driveway, or walkway. Achieve the perfect concrete leveling from the best concrete repair company. Call iFOAM at (855) 935-4723 to schedule a free consultation today!