Understanding the Longevity of Concrete Leveling
If you’re considering concrete repair, you want to ensure it lasts for a significant period. But just how long can concrete leveling maintain your sunken concrete in its rightful place? While nothing lasts forever, when executed correctly, concrete leveling can provide a remarkably durable solution. Let’s consult our experienced concrete leveling contractors:
A-1 Concrete Leveling Des Moines boasts over 18 years of experience in lifting uneven concrete slabs, and we’ve witnessed firsthand the remarkable durability and effectiveness of concrete leveling. In fact, most of our earliest projects are still standing strong!
While we offer warranties, the reality is that concrete leveling can endure far longer. As long as the soil or underlying sub-material remains stable, your leveled concrete will too. In essence, concrete leveling can last as long as the concrete itself.
In this article, we’ll delve into why concrete leveling can stand the test of time, the uncontrollable aspect of natural settling, and how you can prevent resettling after a slab has been lifted.
Why Concrete Leveling Can Last So Long
For most concrete leveling customers, the issue isn’t with the concrete itself but with the soil, backfill, or gravel beneath it. When these materials settle or erode, they take the concrete slab down with them. During a concrete leveling repair, we drill through the sunken concrete section and replace the settled or eroded soil or substrate material with our injected leveling compound. This material spreads out beneath the section, fills any voids, and raises the concrete back into place.
The key to the longevity and durability of concrete slabs and concrete leveling lies in the stability of the material underneath our injected compound. If this material has completed its settling process, our injected material won’t budge either.
Uncontrollable Natural Settling
One factor we cannot control is natural settling around newer concrete. Materials under newer concrete slabs or around new construction haven’t had sufficient time to settle naturally. Typically, it takes at some time for this natural settling to occur around your home.
Although natural settling is beyond control, other factors that affect concrete leveling’s longevity can be managed, such as water flow and animals.
Controllable Factors
Resettling, not caused by natural settling or soil compaction, can be controlled through regular maintenance and attention to the following factors:
- Water Flow: Constant water exposure beneath a concrete slab can erode the essential sub-material, leading to settling. If your slab is in a water-prone area, consider revisiting the repair.
- Backfill Soil:: Backfilling the exposed edges of the concrete with topsoil during routine landscaping maintenance helps prevent voids from reappearing.
- Reroute Drainage:: Divert downspouts and other drainage sources away from your concrete slabs to reduce water flow and erosion in the area.
- Caulk Breaks::Sealing cracks and expansion joints in your concrete prevents water from seeping through and eroding the substrate.
- Animals:: Burrowing animals can create voids under your concrete, leading to resettling. Keep an eye out for pests like chipmunks to ensure they don't make a home beneath your concrete.
Now, armed with a deeper understanding of the factors influencing concrete leveling’s durability, you can confidently embrace it as a valuable tool for achieving long-lasting, level concrete surfaces.
Trust our experienced concrete leveling contractors at A-1 Concrete Leveling Des Moines.
For more inquiries about our concrete leveling services, reach us at 515-403-7848.
