Concrete Leveling - Foundation Repair - A1 Concrete

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How does concrete leveling work?

A Small hole is drilled in the affected concrete.

A1 pumping compound (eco-friendly limestone and water) is pumped beneath the concrete. The mixture is pressurized, hydraulically raising the concrete slab.

After concrete has been leveled, the hole is sealed off.

Think of a concrete slab like a door laying flat. By injecting material underneath in specific areas you can adjust the angle or pitch of the door to any angle or direction desired. This is what A1 Concrete Leveling has done for more than 20 years.

What causes concrete to sink?
There are a number of issues that cause concrete to sink. The most common causes are:
• Ground Settling
• Rodents
• Water erosion
• Improper Ground Preparation
In addition to safety concerns, improperly pitched concrete can cause water run-off issues that can cause structural and foundation damage.

Is it Safe?
A1 pumping compound is eco, nature and environmentally friendly. The compound is made of natural ingredients: crushed limestone and water.

How much does Concrete Leveling cost?
Concrete Leveling is typically at least 50% less than the cost of concrete replacement. There is also the added financial benefit of not having to incur the cost of:
• Demolition and removal of concrete
• Down time (leveled concrete can be used immediately)
• Landscaping

How long does it take?
Most concrete leveling jobs are completed in several hours. Remember there is no waiting with leveled concrete; it can be used immediately.

How long has Concrete Leveling been used?
Concrete Leveling was originally called mud jacking or slab jacking. The process has been in existence almost 100 years. About 20 years ago Grover Miller, an inventor from Peninsula, Ohio, developed and patented A-1’s self-contained pumping truck using the crushed limestone material to fill the voids under uneven concrete slabs.

What are the Benefits of Leveling verses replacement?
• Concrete Leveling typically realizes a savings of 50-70% over replacement
• Projects are generally completed in several hours rather than days
• Downtime reduced – after completion the concrete can be used immediately
• No demolition and disposal of old concrete
• Landscaping of surrounding areas is unaffected
• Aesthetics – maintains appearance of existing concrete
• No building permit required

Can all concrete be leveled?
Most concrete slabs can be leveled. Any slab or block that is still in good condition can be leveled. When large areas of concrete have deteriorated or crumbled or fractures (cracks) are too close together replacement may be the best option.

Can concrete slabs be lowered?
If the cause of the raised slabs is tree roots, typically the roots can be removed and any void left filled to level the slab. However, if this is not possible, the adjoining slabs can generally be raised up at a graduated slope to meet the higher slab and eliminate the trip hazard.

Can driveways leaning toward the house be angled away from the house?
In most cases, yes. Think of a concrete slab like a door laying flat. By injecting material underneath in different areas you can adjust the angle or pitch of the door to any angle or direction desired. A1 can lift the driveway or patio slabs and adjust the pitch to direct the water run off away from the house. We also use caulking (joint sealing) to protect from any further water caused erosion. If there are other drainage problems still existing such as failed footer drains, the problem may not be completely resolved. These issues should also be addressed.

How long does leveling last?
A1 injects the necessary amount of material beneath the concrete improving soil density and stabilizing the soil. The concrete is now properly supported and stabilized. With proper drainage and sealing, leveling can last indefinitely. Keep in mind that improper water drainage can erode even the best of soils.

What is a void?
A void is a pocket of air or water underneath the concrete. Typically clay and organic soils are more prone to voids. Water drainage issues, poor soil preparation rodents or normal settling of soils can also create voids.

Can cracked concrete be leveled?
Yes, if the concrete slabs are still in large pieces and the cracks are not located to closely together. If the concrete has crumbled or the fractures (cracks) are too close together then replacement would be the best option.

What is the warranty for concrete leveling?
Concrete leveling on settled soil should last indefinitely. Typically any issues that could occur will happen within the first 6 months. A1 provides a FIVE-year warranty to cover any unforeseen circumstances.

Will my water drainage issues be resolved?
Changing the pitch or angle of concrete will redirect water run-off and can resolve drainage problems. Concrete leveling is not waterproofing, drainage footer failure repair or foundation repair; these issues should be addressed separately. Ask A1 for help if you have these concerns.

How do I get started?
Contact A1 for a free estimate. Tell the customer service representative where your specific concrete issues are. An estimator will come out to provide a detailed estimate of the area(s) needing leveling. No need to be home. The estimate can be emailed, faxed or left at the property. Once you approve the work, the project will typically be completed within 10 days.

Do I need to be home when the estimator comes?
No, when you speak with the A1 customer service representative, they will ask you for the general area that needs to be leveled. A1 works with city inspectors and knows exactly what to look for when it comes to removing trip and safety hazards.

Do you have references?
Yes, A1 works with most of the cities and municipalities in the Lake, Geauga and Cuyahoga county areas and is listed as an approved contractor. You may also check with the local Better Business Bureau and Angie’s list or ask your customer service representative when you call.

What is Piering?
Piering is a method of foundation repair. The affected area of the foundation is excavated and QuadPower piers are placed in strategic areas along the outside of the foundation. The structure is lifted, the voided area is filled with grout to stabilize and strengthen the area and to prevent future settling.

How do I know if I need foundation repair?
Typical signs that the foundation is in need of repair
• Step like cracks in the foundation blocks
• Uneven floors, windows or doors
• Leaning chimney
• Sinking foundation

From sidewalks to stadiums A1 Concrete Leveling provides exceptional quality, long-term, cost effective solutions to concrete issues in the residential, commercial, and industrial markets. Our unwavering goal is to be the first choice for concrete repair solutions in Greater Cleveland by offering superior service, rapid response time and unsurpassed workmanship.