How To Prevent The Need For Concrete Leveling
Concrete is one of the most common building materials in commercial, industrial and residential buildings. It is also used in paving roads, driveways, parking lots and more. Although concrete is known for its strength, it is not indestructible. Over time, it is not uncommon for concrete slabs to settle or sink. If left unattended, this can result in unsightly uneven surfaces that are a tripping hazard and can cause damage to vehicles and equipment when they are driven or parked over sunken areas. Concrete leveling lifts and evens out sunken concrete surfaces, Concrete Leveling Contractors Mentor restoring them to their original height and eliminating the hazards caused by unevenness.
While it is not possible to prevent concrete from settling over time, there are steps you can take to prevent the need for concrete leveling. One of the most important is catching any signs of damage early on. Visible unevenness and sunken concrete are clear indicators that your concrete needs repair, but you should also look for other symptoms like cracks, water pooling, or tripping hazards.
If you notice any of these problems, contact concrete repair professionals for an inspection and leveling estimate. They will be able to recommend the best concrete repair solution. If your concrete has extreme damage, replacement may be necessary.
The most popular and efficient method of concrete leveling is polyurethane foam injection. This is a quick and affordable solution that will restore the structural integrity of your concrete and provide years of protection against further damage. Unlike the older mud-based slab jacking technique, this method utilizes polyurethane foam that is much lighter and more effective at raising and supporting damaged concrete.
Before beginning any concrete leveling work, you should sweep and vacuum the area to remove any dirt, debris or oil stains. Then, using a carpenter’s level, move it over the surface to identify low spots where concrete need to be raised. Mark these areas with a pencil.
Next, prepare the area for leveling by cleaning the concrete with a commercial concrete oil stain remover or by scrubbing it with a scrub brush and dish soap. You should also use a concrete grinder to roughen up the area and help the leveling cement adhere.
Once the prep work is complete, your professional contractor will begin the concrete leveling process. First, penny-sized holes will be drilled through the surface of the concrete. Then, polyurethane foam will be injected into these holes to fill the crevices and compress the soil underneath the concrete, lifting it back to its original position. The foam is then cured, and the holes are patched. The whole process can usually be completed within a few hours. Once the repair is complete, you can resume using your driveway, sidewalk or patio as usual.