Your Ultimate Guide to Mudjacking and Concrete Leveling

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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!

Elevating Your Concrete Experience with A-1 Concrete Leveling

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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! 

Enhance Your Pool Experience with Level Pool Decks

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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.

Understanding the Longevity of Concrete Leveling

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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.

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Concrete Dilemma: Repair or Replace? Our Expert Advice to Help You Decide

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Concrete Dilemma: Leveling vs. Replacement, Our Expert Advice to Help You Decide

Are you a homeowner who takes pride in the appearance of your property? If so, you’ve likely invested in concrete for your driveways and walkways. Concrete is a popular choice for a good reason—it’s strong, durable, and low maintenance. However, like all materials, it will eventually show signs of wear and tear. As concrete ages, it may develop unsightly cracks and holes that can detract from the curb appeal of your home.

Many homeowners assume that the only solution is to replace their entire concrete slab, but this isn’t always necessary. In fact, concrete repair or leveling can be a cost-effective way to restore your concrete’s appearance and function. The question is, “How do you know when to repair versus replace your concrete?” Let’s explore this topic in more detail.

 Concrete Leveling
  • For concrete surfaces like steps, patios, driveways, sidewalks, and porches that have settled or sunk over time, concrete leveling is a technique for filling the voids beneath the surfaces and eliminating hazards. The procedure entails drilling holes in the concrete and injecting a slurry through them and beneath the slab. This compound strengthens weak soil and raises the sunken slab to its ideal height.
  • The benefits of this include improved safety, enhanced curb appeal, and longer-lasting concrete surfaces, all at a fraction of the cost of complete concrete replacement.
  Concrete Replacement
  • It is the process of completely removing an old concrete slab and replacing it with a new one. It’s typically done when the existing concrete is severely damaged, cracked, or structurally compromised, making it unsafe or impractical to repair. 
  • While it may seem like a drastic and expensive solution, it is sometimes necessary. Severely fractured concrete may need to be replaced. The techniques offer a variety of customization options, including color, texture, and patterns.

Leveling or Replacement? Factors to Consider

Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace concrete:

  1. Age and condition of the concrete
    2. If the concrete is relatively new and in good condition except for minor cracks, repair may be the better option. However, if the concrete is old and severely damaged, with numerous cracks, surface damage, and holes, replacement may be necessary.

  2. Extent of damage
    3. The size and extent of the damage to the concrete will affect the decision to repair or replace it. Minor cracks and surface damage can often be repaired, but larger cracks and deep structural damage may require replacement. A1 Concrete Leveling provides estimates and evaluations at no charge.

  3. Cost
    4. The cost of repair versus replacement is an important factor to consider. In general, repairing concrete is more cost-effective than replacing it, but this may not always be the case, especially if the damage is extensive. Leveling is approximately ⅓ the cost of replacement.

  4. Safety concerns
    5. If the damaged concrete poses a safety hazard, such as tripping hazards or structural instability, it is necessary to act quickly. It is wise to begin creating a plan of action and gathering information on the options available to you.

  5. Aesthetics
    6. If the appearance of the concrete is important, compare leveling vs. replacement services as a solution.

  6. Timeframe
    7. The timeframe for the project is also a consideration. Leveling concrete can often be completed in a shorter timeframe than replacing it, which may be important if the area is heavily used and downtime needs to be minimized.

The Takeaway: Are You Still Unsure About the Best Option for You?

It’s important to carefully consider all the factors involved. Ultimately, it’s always best to consult with a professional concrete contractor who can provide expert advice and guidance on the best course of action for your specific situation. Get your free estimate with us at A1 Concrete Leveling. Call us at (515) 402-7848 or send us an email at a1cldsm@aol.com. By doing so, you can ensure that your concrete structures remain strong, durable, and safe for years to come.

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What Makes Concrete Leveling Eco-friendly

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What Makes Concrete Leveling Eco-friendly

Concrete leveling is a popular method used to repair uneven concrete surfaces. This process involves drilling small holes into the surface and injecting a mixture of crushed limestone beneath the concrete surface to lift it. There are no harmful chemicals in A1 Concrete Leveling slurry.

Besides the practical benefits of concrete leveling, it is also an eco-friendly solution, which makes it beneficial for both humans and the environment. In this blog, we will discuss what makes concrete leveling a great choice when fixing concrete surfaces and why A1 Concrete Leveling is the premier provider

  1. Reduced Waste
    2. The great thing about concrete leveling is that it doesn’t require the contractors to remove and replace the damaged concrete. Therefore, it produces less waste compared to replacing it.   Traditional methods consist of removing and replacing the damaged concrete, which results in a significant amount of waste and overfilled landfills. In contrast, concrete leveling only requires materials to be injected under the concrete surface, which helps eliminate all waste produced by replacing it.
     
  2. Reduced Disruption
    3. Since concrete leveling requires the use of equipment that is permanently mounted on trucks, most of the generated noise is contained and will take less time. Unlike removing or replacing concrete, there are no roll off containers, multiple heavy-weight trucks, or construction traffic.
     
  3. Reduced Energy Use
    4. For contractors, it’s very hard to work under the hot sun while moving materials or removing drilled concrete repeatedly. Traditional methods require a lot of manpower and consumable materials, such as gas for machinery to finish the project. But with A1 Concrete Leveling, less energy is needed compared to traditional repair methods. Not only does concrete leveling use fewer materials, it will also lower project costs, and the project time is significantly reduced.
     
  4. Long-Lasting Solution
    5. Often concrete leveling is utilized to increase the lifespan of existing concrete. Bringing uneven concrete back to its proper level will reduce ongoing concrete separation and growth of cracks.Stabilizing and restoring the concrete’s surface level can help prevent further damage and deterioration, reducing the need for frequent repairs. This method not only saves money in the long run but also reduces the need for additional materials and energy use associated with frequent repairs, making it an eco-friendly choice.The lifted concrete will remain stable so long as the underlying soil remains stable.
     
  5. No Harmful Chemicals
How about the use of chemicals? No worries because A1 Concrete Leveling does not use chemicals, making it a safe and eco-friendly  solution. The mixture  used in the process is non-toxic, and it does not emit any harmful gasses or chemicals. Using this type of non-toxic mixture is not only great for the environment but also keeps the workers and residents near the area safe. It is also very good for soil.

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly solution to repair uneven and cracked concrete surfaces, concrete leveling is the way to go. By using this method, you can help reduce waste, material, and energy, as well as provide a long-lasting solution. If you need concrete leveling services in the Des Moines area,  A1 Concrete Leveling is the company you can trust.

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Why Does Concrete Sink?: Cause and Prevention

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Isn’t it annoying to suddenly find the concrete of your home or other property sinking without knowing the reason why? In the process of building your home or your property, you wanted everything to be perfect and aesthetically pleasing to everyone’s eyes. And then suddenly, you wake up one morning only to find out that in some parts of your property, the concrete is starting to sink. Why does this happen?

Causes of Concrete Sinking

Here are some reasons or causes why the concrete in your property may sink.

  1. Poorly Compacted Soil

    2. A trusted and skilled concrete contractor should know how important it is to compact the soil before pouring the concrete. But if the contractor you hired failed to do so, this can be an issue, as the soil will start to compact irregularly under the weight of the concrete over time, which will eventually lead to the concrete sinking.


  2. Water Erosion

    3. Best practices include caulking or creating a seak between the joints. If water or moisture is allowed to intrude below the slab, there is a big possibility that it will cause erosion to take place. When this happens, the concrete on your property will sink and move. This can also create a gap or void under the concrete.


  3. Dry Soil Conditions

    4. Long periods of drought have a lot of negative effects, and one of these effects is the shrinking of the soil, especially in areas with lots of clay. This will result in sinking concrete because of the unstable sub-surfaces. Another cause of the concrete sinking is when the soil has been dried-out and then suddenly soaked with heavy rain. Voids may be filled with unstable moistened soil.


  4. Error in the Construction of Foundation

    5. Concrete sinking usually happens around the foundation of your home or property. This is because the area is excavated a few feet wider to allow workers to put in and remove the forms. If your contractor fails to backfill the area properly, it will settle over time and cause your concrete to sink.


  5. Animal or Pest Influences

    6. Voids under concrete created by animals such as groundhogs, chipmunks, and others can cause sinking of the concrete. Furthermore, pests like ants can also cause small pathways beneath the concrete to sink. When these voids are widened by running water, worse issues and problems can occur.

How to Prevent Concrete Sinking

If there are a lot of causes for the concrete on your property to sink, of course, there are also ways to prevent it from sinking, and here are a few of them.

  • Sealing the cracks or openings near the concrete works of your property using polyurethane caulk.
  • Make sure to pack any open sides of the concrete slab with soil to ensure that water cannot slip below them.
  • You should also make sure that your gutter discharges water at least five feet away from any of the concrete slabs on your property.
  • Don’t forget to establish the base of at least 4 inches of gravel and that it is compacted when pouring new concrete. Make sure that the base won’t move when you stomp your feet on it.
  • Drain pipes that are close to any concrete slabs like a walkway should be installed below the concrete and extended into the yard.

Final Thoughts

When deciding to pour concrete around your properties, make sure that you know the causes of sinking and that you also know the ways to avoid it. If concrete sinking does takes place, then hiring a trusted contractor like A1 Concrete Leveling of Des Moines will help determine the best course of action. 

Call us today for your concrete leveling projects, and we assure you that we will provide you with the highest quality services that you and your property deserve.

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A1 Concrete Leveling of Des Moines shares the differences of mudjacking vs foam installation

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A1 Concrete Leveling of Des Moines shares the differences of mudjacking vs foam installation

Most customers do not understand the occupational hazards of working with polyfoam safely. Polyurethane foam is a petroleum-based substance that can adhere to any material, even skin. Its main ingredients include known carcinogens and substances listed as toxic by the EPA, OSHA, NIST.

A1 Concrete Leveling of Des Moines values the health and safety of employees as much as the quality of customer experience. Relying on polyfoam as a solution creates great concerns for both the safety of the team, customers, and the quality of end result.

Choosing to avoid this toxic substance is a decision that A1 Concrete Leveling of Des Moines has made after years of experience.

Damage and Cleanup With Polyurethane Foam Installation

Polyfoam can permanently stain windows, siding, doors and effectively ruin the aesthetics of your garden or landscaping in an instant. With traditional mudjacking, A1 Concrete Leveling of Des Moines can guarantee that the cleanup will never become an issue that will cost you more money to correct after the project is completed.

When it comes to performing concrete leveling services for residential or commercial customers, the risks of using polyfoam simply outweigh the benefits and the quality of the end result when compared to traditional mudjacking.

Durability of traditional mudjacking vs. polyfoam

Did you know that traditional mudjacking simply lasts longer than polyfoam? Traditional mudjacking relies on the strength of grout made from crushed rock and limestone to level concrete slabs. It is stronger, more durable, and simply better at filling complex voids than polyfoam.

What happens to concrete if the soil fails?

If the soil below your slab fails, neither polyfoam nor traditional mudjacking can ensure your slab will remain level. However, traditional mudjacking will provide a more durable and long-lasting solution for leveling concrete.

Void filling properties of polyfoam vs. mudjacking

It has been determined that the void-filling properties of these foam products are more unpredictable than traditional mudjacking and not worth customers’ time or money.

The success of mudjacking is thanks to the consistency of the grout used to fill the voids. This grout flows better and more predictably than foam into underground voids and hardens quickly. With traditional mudjacking, your concrete may be ready that same day. Unfortunately, polyfoam cannot guarantee the same results.

Not only does polyfoam fail to effectively spread into complex voids, but it is also common for excess air in the pump to create further air channels throughout the foam before it hardens. These additional air channels weaken the integrity of the foam once it is cured, and can lead to further sinking or cracking of your concrete.