The Omaha Guide to Concrete Leveling
Concrete surfaces are an essential part of any Omaha home. However, driveways, sidewalks, patios, and even foundations can become uneven over time due to shifting soil, moisture changes, and temperature fluctuations. Uneven surfaces not only create safety hazards but can also lead to costly repairs if left unaddressed.
This guide explores why concrete surfaces become unlevel, compares various lifting methods, and explains why polyurethane foam lifting is the best solution for Omaha homeowners looking for reliable concrete repair.
How Concrete Surfaces Become Uneven
Concrete slabs shift for several reasons, often tied to environmental factors and soil conditions. One of the primary causes is soil erosion, which occurs when water washes away the dirt beneath a slab, leaving a void that causes the concrete to sink. Similarly, Omaha’s freeze-thaw cycles cause soil to expand and contract, putting stress on concrete surfaces and leading to cracks and settlement.
Tree roots also contribute to uneven concrete, as they grow beneath slabs and push them upward. Additionally, improper soil compaction during construction can result in gradual sinking over time. Regardless of the cause, homeowners looking to fix concrete cracks or prevent further damage should act quickly to avoid larger structural issues.
Comparing Concrete Leveling Methods
Several methods exist for concrete crack repair and leveling, but not all are equally effective. Let’s examine the most common options:
Mudjacking
Mudjacking, also known as slabjacking, is a traditional method of concrete leveling. This process involves drilling large holes in the affected slab and injecting a slurry mixture of cement, sand, and water underneath to raise it back into place.
While mudjacking is cost-effective, it has significant drawbacks. The heavy cement slurry can add stress to the already compromised soil. The installation process leaves behind large, easily visible drill holes that can compromise your curb appeal. Worst of all, the slurry can wash away over time, leaving you with the same issues as before.
Concrete Replacement
Some homeowners consider tearing out and replacing their damaged concrete instead of opting for concrete repair. While this approach provides a fresh surface, it is expensive, time-consuming, and disruptive. New concrete can take weeks to cure properly, and without addressing underlying soil issues, the problem may reoccur.
Additionally, full concrete replacement is the most expensive and time-consuming concrete repair method. If the root cause of your cracking or settlement issue goes unaddressed, this costly investment is likely to require further concrete crack repair down the line.
Polyurethane Foam Lifting
Polyurethane foam lifting is a modern and superior alternative to traditional methods. This technique involves injecting a lightweight, expanding foam beneath the concrete surface through small, nearly invisible holes. As the foam expands, it fills voids, stabilizes the soil, and lifts the slab back into place.
The process is quick, often completed in hours, and allows for immediate use of the repaired surface. Unlike mudjacking slurry, polyurethane foam does not erode over time. Additionally, the foam does not add extra weight to the soil, reducing the risk of future settling.
Why Polyurethane Foam Lifting is Best for Omaha Homeowners
Omaha’s climate, with its extreme temperature shifts and varying moisture levels, makes polyurethane foam lifting the best choice for concrete repair. The method effectively combats the soil instability that plagues many Omaha properties, providing a long-lasting solution for homeowners looking to fix concrete cracks and prevent further damage.
Groundworks uses its proprietary PolyRenewal™ to lift and stabilize your cracked or sunken concrete in minutes. Compared to other, more expensive or protracted alternatives, concrete lifting with PolyRenewal™ is the best choice for Omaha homeowners plagued by uneven concrete.
Trust Groundworks for Expert Concrete Leveling
Concrete leveling is a critical maintenance task for Omaha homeowners, as uneven slabs can lead to safety risks and costly repairs. Polyurethane foam lifting is the best investment for your home if you’re looking for a reliable way to fix concrete cracks and ensure durable concrete repair.
Contact Groundworks today to schedule a free inspection and concrete crack repair estimate from our expert team.
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Disclaimer: “Concrete leveling” means the process by which cracked, uneven concrete is stabilized, and in many cases lifted, by means of PolyRenewal™ polyurethane foam. Groundworks does not guarantee that PolyRenewal™ can make your concrete perfectly level.