All posts by : jay@jarheadlab.com

Concrete surfaces like driveways, patios, and sidewalks are built to last, but over time, they can settle or become uneven. At A-1 Concrete Leveling, we understand that concrete settling can be both frustrating and concerning for homeowners and business owners alike. Here’s a closer look at why concrete settles and how you can prevent these issues in the future.

1. Soil Erosion and Compaction

One of the most common causes of concrete settling is soil erosion or inadequate soil compaction. When soil underneath a concrete slab washes away or compresses over time, the concrete can sink or become uneven.

Prevention Tip: Ensure proper drainage around your concrete surfaces to prevent water from washing away the soil. Additionally, having your soil compacted correctly before pouring concrete can help prevent future settling.

2. Poor Quality Concrete

Concrete that’s mixed with inadequate or incorrect proportions of ingredients can lead to weak and unstable slabs. Over time, this can result in cracks and settling.

Prevention Tip: Work with reputable contractors who use high-quality materials and adhere to proper mixing and pouring techniques. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can also help extend the life of your concrete surfaces.

3. Tree Roots

Tree roots can cause significant issues by growing under or around concrete surfaces, pushing them up or causing them to crack.

Prevention Tip: Regularly inspect and manage tree roots near your concrete areas. Consider removing trees that are too close or use root barriers to prevent damage.

4. Water Damage

Excessive water exposure can erode the soil beneath concrete, leading to settlement. This is especially common in areas with poor drainage or where water pools frequently.

Prevention Tip: Ensure proper drainage systems are in place to direct water away from concrete surfaces. Regularly check for and address any pooling or drainage issues.

5. Temperature Fluctuations

Extreme temperature changes can cause concrete to expand and contract, leading to cracking and uneven settling over time.

Prevention Tip: While you can’t control the weather, you can minimize temperature-related damage by sealing your concrete surfaces to protect against moisture infiltration and temperature extremes.

How A-1 Concrete Leveling Can Help

At A-1 Concrete Leveling, we specialize in addressing and correcting concrete settling issues for all of your concrete areas, including driveways, sidewalks, patios, porches, steps, and slabs. We use advanced techniques and quality materials to ensure a durable and long-lasting fix.

If you’re noticing signs of concrete settling at your home, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Contact A-1 Concrete Leveling at 515-402-7848 for a free quote and let us help you maintain a safe, level, and beautiful concrete surface.

Stay proactive about concrete maintenance and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with well-maintained surfaces. For more tips and services, visit our website or give us a call today!

Sidewalks are more than just concrete pathways—they’re essential to our daily lives, providing safe passage for pedestrians and contributing to the charm of our neighborhoods. Yet, when they become uneven or cracked, they can pose significant hazards. In this blog, we’re diving into the ins and outs of municipal sidewalk programs, the legalities of sidewalk trip and fall incidents, and the importance of proper entry step heights. Let’s explore why maintaining your sidewalks and steps is crucial for safety and compliance!

Municipal Sidewalk Programs: What You Need to Know

Municipal sidewalk programs are designed to keep our public walkways safe and accessible. Many cities and towns have regulations requiring property owners to maintain sidewalks adjacent to their properties. These programs often focus on:

• Regular Inspections: Municipalities may conduct periodic inspections to ensure sidewalks are in good condition.
• Repair Requirements: Property owners might be responsible for repairing any damage to sidewalks, such as cracks or uneven surfaces.
• Compliance Deadlines: There are often deadlines for completing repairs to avoid fines or other penalties.

If you notice issues with your sidewalks, it’s essential to address them promptly to comply with local regulations and avoid potential liabilities.

Legalities of Sidewalk Trip & Fall Incidents

Trip and fall incidents on sidewalks can lead to serious injuries and legal complications. Here’s what you should know:

• Property Owner Liability: In many cases, property owners are liable for maintaining safe sidewalks. If someone trips and falls due to uneven concrete, the property owner may be held responsible for damages.
• Documenting the Issue: If a trip and fall incident occurs, it’s crucial to document the condition of the sidewalk before repairs are made. This can help in legal situations where the condition of the sidewalk is questioned.
• Preventative Maintenance: Regularly inspecting and maintaining sidewalks can prevent accidents and reduce liability.

Entry Step Heights: A Critical Safety Consideration

Entry steps are often overlooked, but their height can significantly impact safety. Here’s why it matters:

• Consistency is Key: Uneven or inconsistent step heights can cause trips and falls. It’s important that all steps leading to your home or business are of uniform height.
• Building Codes: Many municipalities have specific building codes for step heights. Ensuring your steps meet these standards can help avoid legal issues and improve safety.
• Regular Checks: Check your steps regularly for wear and tear, and make sure they are level and secure.

Who You Choose to Level Your Concrete Matters

At A-1 Concrete Leveling, we specialize in restoring and leveling concrete surfaces, including sidewalks and steps. Our technology for lifting your concrete is a proven process that saves time and money over traditional replacement!

• Lower pressure (5 psi) process is safer for concrete than high pressure conventional mudjacking.
• We make only 1 inch reusable holes (about the size of a quarter), 3-8 times smaller than conventional mudjacking.
• Our environmentally friendly slurry is a proven stable material with over 500,000 jobs completed nationwide.

Ready to Ensure Your Sidewalks and Steps Are Safe?

If your sidewalks or steps are showing signs of wear and tear, don’t wait for an accident to happen. Contact A-1 Concrete Leveling for a professional inspection and effective solutions. We’re here to help you keep your property safe and compliant with municipal regulations.

Call us today at 515-402-7848 or email us at A1CLDSM@aol.com to request a quote or learn more about our services!

Summer is here, and it’s the perfect time to get your outdoor spaces looking great and functioning safely. Uneven concrete can be a real hassle, but A-1 Concrete Leveling of Des Moines is here to help! We specialize in leveling concrete for patios, stairs, pool decks, driveways, sidewalks, garages, and slabs, making your property safe and beautiful again. Let’s dive into how our services can make your summer smooth and enjoyable.

Patio and Pool Deck Leveling

Your patio and pool deck should be a place of relaxation, not a tripping hazard. Uneven slabs can make these areas dangerous and uncomfortable. Here’s how A-1 Concrete Leveling can help:

• Patios: If your back patio is uneven, cracked, or sunken, it’s hard to relax and enjoy the space. We level your patio, making it safe and comfortable again. Plus, our process is faster and more affordable than a full replacement.
• Pool Decks: A level pool deck is crucial for safety. We can fix sunken or uneven slabs, ensuring that your pool area is safe for everyone to enjoy. Our service is quick, eco-friendly, and retains the original look of your concrete.

Driveways and Sidewalks

A bumpy driveway or sidewalk is more than just an eyesore; it’s a safety risk. Whether for your home or business, A-1 Concrete Leveling has you covered:

• Driveways: Over time, sections of your driveway can lift or drop, creating an uneven surface. We level your driveway efficiently, saving you money compared to a full replacement. This not only improves the look of your property but also enhances safety and convenience.
• Sidewalks: Cracked and uneven sidewalks can be dangerous for pedestrians. We level sidewalks quickly, making them safe to walk on again. You can count on us to do the job right, with minimal disruption to your daily life.

Garages, Stairs, and Slabs

From your garage floor to the stairs leading up to your home, we ensure every part of your property is level and secure:

• Garages: An uneven garage floor can be a nuisance, causing problems for parked vehicles and stored items. We level your garage floor, providing a smooth, stable surface that lasts.
• Stairs: Uneven stairs are a serious safety hazard. We level each step, ensuring they are safe to use and look great.
• Slabs: Whether it’s a foundation slab or a smaller concrete pad, we can level it. Our patented leveling process ensures durability and quality, giving you peace of mind.

This summer, let A-1 Concrete Leveling of Des Moines help you enjoy your outdoor spaces to the fullest. With our professional, efficient, and cost-effective services, you can have safe and beautiful concrete surfaces all season long.

For more information or to schedule a free consultation, call us at 515-402-7848. Let’s make your summer smooth and level together!

Maintaining your property can be tough, especially with uneven concrete. Whether it’s your driveway, patio, or sidewalk, uneven concrete isn’t just an eyesore—it’s a tripping hazard. As a homeowner, you must choose between leveling the concrete or replacing it. At A-1 Concrete Leveling Des Moines, we believe leveling is the smarter, more cost-effective, and eco-friendly option. We offer transparent, upfront estimates and consult with customers if unexpected issues arise. With over 18 years of experience, our top-quality service and strong warranty set us apart. As a locally owned business, we prioritize exceptional customer service. Here’s why leveling is the better choice.

Concrete Leveling vs. Full Concrete Replacement

• Concrete Leveling: Also known as mudjacking or pressure grouting, concrete leveling involves lifting and leveling the existing slab by drilling small holes and pumping an environmentally friendly slurry underneath. This mixture fills voids and raises the concrete to its proper level.
• Full Concrete Replacement: Full replacement involves removing the existing concrete, preparing the ground, and pouring new concrete. While this provides a brand-new surface, it is significantly more labor-intensive, time-consuming, and expensive.
• Indicators You Need Concrete Leveling: Uneven slabs, cracks, surface damage, and general unevenness are key indicators that you need concrete leveling. 

The Benefits of Concrete Leveling

Cost Efficiency

• Lower Costs: Concrete leveling typically costs a fraction of what you’d pay for a full replacement. Since there’s no need to demolish and remove the old concrete, you save on labor and disposal fees.
• Budget-Friendly: The materials used for leveling are less expensive than new concrete needed for replacement, making it a budget-friendly option for homeowners.

Time-Saving

• Quick Process: Leveling can often be completed in just a few hours, whereas full replacement can take several days or even weeks, depending on the size and scope of the project.
• Minimal Disruption: Because the process is quick, there’s minimal disruption to your daily life. You can use your driveway or patio soon after the leveling is complete.

Environmental Impact

• Less Waste: Leveling uses non-toxic materials, reduces debris and waste going into our landfills.
• Eco-Friendly: By avoiding the demolition of existing concrete and using toxic materials, you help reduce pollutants making leveling a more environmentally friendly choice.

Durability and Effectiveness

• Long-Lasting Results: Properly leveled concrete can last for many years. Materials ride with the soil and will remain in place so long as the soil is stabilized.  
• Safety First: Leveling eliminates trip hazards and creates a smooth, even surface, enhancing the safety and aesthetics of your property.

Get Started Today

Don’t let uneven concrete ruin the appearance and safety of your property. Contact A-1 Concrete Leveling Des Moines today for a free quote and discover how easy and affordable it can be to level your concrete. Let us help you save money and enhance your real estate with our expert concrete leveling services.

Hey there, fellow homeowner! Have you ever found yourself pondering the peculiar term “mudjacking” or “concrete leveling” while chatting with your neighbors or searching the depths of the internet for solutions to your sinking driveway? Well, you’re in luck because we’re about to guide you through this fascinating process and equip you with all the knowledge you need to decide if mudjacking may be the right step for you! 

What on Earth is Mudjacking?

Mudjacking and Concrete Leveling are two terms used when talking about lifting slabs with an injected media. It involves pumping our special mixture of crushed limestone rock and water beneath settled concrete slabs to lift them back to their former glory. It’s like giving your concrete a much-needed boost from beneath, restoring them to a level, even position. Think of it as a concrete spa day!

Mudjacking Process 

Curious about how this process works? Allow us to enlighten you! A1 Concrete Leveling follows a simple three-step process:

• Step 1 involves drilling holes approximately 1 inch in diameter into the sunken slabs. 
• Step 2, a mix of limestone and water is gently pumped through these holes to the underside of the slab under low pressure, effectively raising it to a level position. 
• Step 3 entails a thorough cleaning of the area after the slabs have been lifted, followed by sealing the drill holes for a seamless finish.

Pros and Cons:

Every hero has their strengths and weaknesses, and mudjacking is no exception! Let’s take a quick peek at the pros and cons:

Pros:

• Provide a durable repair when executed correctly. It’s like giving your concrete surfaces a suit of armor!
• Lift up heavier concrete slabs and reach those hard-to-access areas, thanks to our patented process.
• Budget-friendly option compared to full concrete replacements. 

Cons:

• The drill holes may leave behind visible surface scars, and the process can be a tad messy at the time of service. But hey, a little messiness is a small price to pay for level concrete!
• Some customers often tell us they regret not having us come out sooner.

Common Mudjacking Myths

Myth #1: Mudjacking material weighs down the soil.

Myth #2: Mudjacking repairs don’t come with warranties.

Myth #3: Mudjacking repairs have to be redone.

Myth #4: Mudjacking drill holes cause concrete to crack.

Myth #5: Mudjacking leaves behind a mess.

Don’t be swayed by common misconceptions about mudjacking and concrete leveling spread by some companies promoting foam concrete leveling services. These myths, though prevalent, are easily debunked. Firstly, the idea that mudjacking material weighs down the soil is false; in fact, the concrete itself outweighs the leveling material. Our crushed rock slurry puts less pressure on the soil than the average 10 year old child standing on one foot. It is true that there can be some compaction of the soil from the leveling process.  It is critical to understand that you cannot lift a slab unless the soil is stable enough to support the weight of the slab, the lifting materials, and the lifting process.  The soils will compact until the proper stability is achieved. Only then will the slab begin to lift. Additionally, A1 Concrete Leveling offers warranties, and reputable contractors prioritize customer satisfaction over warranty terms. Another myth is that mudjacking repairs need frequent redoing, whereas, in reality, the soil beneath the slab, not the lifting material, is subject to erosion and compaction and everything resting on the soils will sink along with it should the soils fail.  Concerns about drill holes causing concrete cracks are largely unfounded, as the risk is minimal and aesthetics is the primary concern. Lastly, the notion that mudjacking creates a mess is untrue; its natural materials are easily cleaned compared to the residue left by chemical foams.

Is Mudjacking Right for You?

So, is mudjacking the fairy godmother your concrete has been dreaming of? It could be! 

If you’re dealing with trip hazards, settling slabs, or voids under your concrete, mudjacking might just be the perfect solution. But remember, it’s always a good idea to explore all your options before making a decision.

If you’re ready to learn more about what mudjacking – or any other concrete leveling method – can do for your home, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a free estimate! Because when it comes to your concrete, knowledge is power – and we’re here to empower you every step of the way.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s give your concrete surfaces the royal treatment they deserve!

Are you tired of navigating your driveway like an off-road adventure? Does your patio resemble a rollercoaster more than a relaxation zone? Fear not, because A-1 Concrete Leveling is here to elevate your concrete experience to new heights!

Picture this: smooth, even surfaces perfect for strolling, skating, or simply savoring those sunny afternoons. Whether it’s your driveway, steps, patio, porch, pool deck, or even your trusty AC slab, we’ve got you covered!

Spot the Signs, Take Action!

The key to a seamless solution? Catching the issue early! Don’t wait until your morning coffee jolts you awake from a jarring encounter with your uneven driveway. Reach out to us as soon as you spot the problem. We offer free estimates, so you’ve got nothing to lose and smooth sailing to gain!

Say Goodbye to Delays with Our Top-Notch Team

At A-1 Concrete Leveling, we understand the importance of timeliness. Once you’re on our calendar, you can expect the work to be completed before you can say “pool season.” We’re talking weeks, not months! Because let’s face it, who wants to spend their summer dodging concrete obstacles?

Experience Matters

With over 20 years of concrete leveling under our belt, we’re not just experts—we’re artisans! A-1 Concrete Leveling isn’t just a service; it’s a legacy of excellence. And if by some rare chance your project falls outside our wheelhouse, fear not! We’ve amassed a network of top-tier contacts over the years to ensure that every aspect of your project receives the attention it deserves. 

Is Concrete Leveling Right for You?

Not sure if your concrete conundrum warrants our expertise? Here’s a quick guide:

Good Fit for Concrete Leveling:

• Interior and exterior settled concrete slabs
• Concrete in relatively good condition
• When cost is a determining factor

Bad Fit for Concrete Leveling:

• Crumbling or heavily cracked slabs
• Surface deterioration
• When the goal is to smooth out surface texture

So, what are you waiting for? Say goodbye to uneven surfaces and hello to smooth sailing with A-1 Concrete Leveling. Contact us today and let’s elevate your concrete experience together! 

Are you looking to elevate your poolside experience? Picture this: you step out into your backyard oasis, ready to relax and enjoy a refreshing dip in your pool. But as you walk across your pool deck, you notice uneven surfaces, cracks, and sinking areas. Suddenly, what should be a tranquil escape becomes a source of frustration and safety concerns.

At A-1 Concrete Leveling Des Moines, we understand the importance of a level pool deck. Serving the greater Des Moines, Iowa area, including Polk, Dallas, and parts of Warren counties, we specialize in providing top-notch concrete leveling services. As part of the A-1 National Franchise Network, the largest concrete leveling company in the nation, we are committed to delivering excellence with every project. Fully insured and backed by our unwavering confidence in our workmanship, we offer warranties on all concrete leveling and mudjacking jobs.

The Importance of Level Pool Decks

Pool decks are not just aesthetic additions to your backyard; they play a crucial role in the safety and enjoyment of your pool area. An uneven pool deck can pose various problems:

• Tripping Hazards: Uneven surfaces create trip hazards, increasing the risk of accidents, especially around a wet environment like a pool.
• Water Drainage Issues: Sinking areas can cause water to collect around your pool deck, leading to potential damage to the surrounding landscape and the deck itself. It can also be a breeding ground for mold and algae which can create a very slippery area that can cause dangerous slips and falls.
• Structural Integrity: Over time, uneven settling can compromise the structural integrity of your pool deck, resulting in cracks and deterioration.
• Aesthetics: A sunken or uneven pool deck detracts from the beauty of your outdoor space, diminishing its overall appeal.

Signs Your Pool Deck Needs Leveling

As a homeowner, it’s essential to keep an eye out for signs indicating that your pool deck may require leveling. Here are some common indicators:

• Visible Cracks: Cracks in the concrete, whether small or significant, are a clear indication of underlying issues that may require attention.
• Sinking or Uneven Areas: If you notice sections of your pool deck sinking or becoming uneven, it’s crucial to address these issues promptly to prevent further damage.
• Standing Water: Water collecting in certain areas of the pool deck indicates poor drainage, often caused by uneven settling.
• Difficulty Closing Pool Covers: Difficulty in closing or opening pool covers smoothly can be a sign of underlying issues with the levelness of the deck.
• Popped-Up Tiles or Pavers: Tiles or pavers coming loose or popping up are signs of movement beneath the surface, which may indicate soil erosion or settling.

Choosing A-1 Concrete Leveling Des Moines

When it comes to leveling your pool deck, trust the experts at A-1 Concrete Leveling Des Moines. With over 20 years of experience in the concrete leveling industry, our team at A-1 Concrete Leveling Des Moines boasts an unmatched level of expertise. Armed with extensive knowledge and refined skills, we confidently undertake any concrete leveling project with precision and efficiency. Whether it’s addressing uneven pool decks or sunken walkways, our years of hands-on experience ensure top-notch, environmentally friendly, chemical-free results that stand the test of time.

Don’t let an uneven pool deck dampen your enjoyment of your outdoor space. Contact A-1 Concrete Leveling Des Moines today and let us help you create a safer, more beautiful pool area for years to come.

Transform your poolside paradise with A-1 Concrete Leveling Des Moines – where quality meets excellence.