Does concrete lifting really work?
Yes, concrete lifting, or slabjacking, is an effective method for repairing sunken or uneven concrete. Professional concrete contractors can inject a mud slurry or a specialized polyurethane material under the slab, which expands to lift it back to its original position. This process can fix issues with driveways, sidewalks, and patios, often in just a few hours and for less than the cost of a full replacement.
What can impact the cost of hiring concrete lifters?
Several things could affect the cost of your project, including:
The size of the area: The total square footage of the concrete slab that needs to be lifted is usually the most imporant factor.
The extent of the sinking: How far the slab has settled determines how much fill material is required to raise it back to level.
The type of material used: The choice between polyurethane foam and a traditional mudjacking slurry can affect the price, as foam is a more advanced material.
Site accessibility: If the concrete slab is in a hard-to-reach location, it may require more time and labor to get the equipment in place.
Your location and pro’s expertise: Labor rates can vary by region and the experience of the team you hire. Finding qualified concrete contractors can help make sure the project goes smoothly.
What is the cheapest way to lift concrete?
Mudjacking is typically the cheapest way to lift concrete. This method involves pumping a sand and soil slurry under the slab to raise it back into place. While cost-effective, it's an older technique. There are other types of slabjacking, including polyurethane foam leveling. Hiring professional concrete contractors can help you determine the best long-term solution for your specific situation.
What questions should I ask before hiring concrete lifters?
Before hiring a pro to lift your concrete, try asking these questions:
Are you licensed and insured?
Do you recommend mudjacking or polyurethane foam lifting for my project, and why?
Do you offer a warranty on the work, and if so, what does it cover and for how long?
Can you provide a detailed, written estimate? (A written quote ensures transparency and helps you compare proposals from different concrete contractors.)
Does your quote include site cleanup and disposal of any materials?
How long will the project take, and how long until I can use the surface again?
What potential complications could come up, and how would you handle them?
How long does it take to lift concrete?
It will proably only take a few hours for a pro to finish your concrete lifting job. A few things may impact this length, like:
The size of the area: The total square footage of the concrete slab is the biggest contributor to cost.
Severity of the issue: How far the concrete has sunk will determine how much material and time are needed for the repair.
Site accessibility: Difficult-to-reach areas often require more setup time for equipment and materials.
Number of slabs: Lifting multiple separate slabs, like individual sidewalk sections, will take longer than lifting one large patio.
Underlying soil conditions: Voids or unstable soil beneath the slab might need to be addressed, which will take more time.
Remember: The timeline for your project could vary. Always ask your pro to provide an estimate.