How does Concrete Leveling work? The technology to lift concrete has been around for centuries. It is the same concept that your mechanic uses to raise your car on a hydraulic lift.  Concrete Leveling is a process that involves pumping a dense material, under pressure, underneath a sunken concrete block, raising it into its original position. 1.     A small (1 inch) hole is precisely drilled through the affected concrete block.  2.     A highly dense, finely crushed limestone (sometimes combined with cement), is mixed with water in a “slurry” consistency and pumped into the holes.  The material fills any “void” areas that have been created by water erosion or compaction.  As it begins to flow under the slab, it exerts an equal pressure on every square inch of concrete that the pump produces. Thus, if the pump produces just 5 -10 pounds per square inch pressure, it can easily raise the slab.       Once the voids have been filled, the block will be pressurized and begin to rise.  Through precise placement of the holes, and control of the amounts of material injected, the block will be carefully moved into the correct position.  Common applications for Residential Concrete Leveling include: sidewalks, steps, patios, driveways, swimming pools, garage floors, and interior slabs. Concrete Leveling usually saves 50% to 75% over the cost of removal and replacement. 3. The holes are filled with a "foam backer rod" to prevent breaking out in the "freeze-thaw cycle". A high-grade mortar is used to cover the holes.

Offsets or “tripping hazards” are created when concrete slabs sink.  In addition to personal or business safety concerns, a concrete slab may develop improper “pitch” or the angle of water run-off.   Serious foundation and structural damage can result from improperly “pitched” concrete. 

Concrete slabs are often installed on poorly compacted fill dirt. Sub-surface erosion and shrinking soil, such as the clay found in Northeast Ohio are also contributing factors. Fill dirt is almost always placed closest to the sides of a new house and garage, after the foundation work is completed. Time constraints and completion deadlines make it difficult for a builder to take the time to properly compact this dirt. Natural settling often takes up to seven years or more in areas of clay soil. 

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, Portland Cement, 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; in most cases 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,  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 too 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.

Will the holes used in leveling be a different color than our existing cement? 

It is virtually impossible to match the color of existing concrete.  A-1 uses high quality mortar mixed with the drilling material that we save from your existing concrete. Over time, Due to weathering, sun, and other environmental discolorations, our mortar will begin to blend with the existing concrete.   A-1 does use smaller, less noticeable holes than most other leveling companies. 

What are the benefits of Concrete Leveling over replacement? 

• The cost of Leveling usually represents a savings of 50% over replacement.
• The leveling process can be completed and ready for use in a matter of hours
• Landscaping and adjacent areas are usually unaffected by our process.
• Injection of our materials help to fill voids and stabilize low-density soils
• Leveling maintains the uniform color of your concrete slabs.
• A "Green" Process. Concrete Leveling reduces job time, energy utilization, and environmental problems associated with concrete demolition, and disposal. 
• No Municipal Building Permits required.

How do the costs of Concrete Leveling Companies compare? 

In most cases the costs for Concrete Leveling, Mudjacking and Slabjacking are comparable.  It is always our goal to quote a fair price for excellent quality work.   

Please bear in mind that:

•    A-1 has Local Ownership with the support and expertise of a National Franchise
•    A-1 uses Smaller Holes in a closer pattern, resulting in a slower, but safer (less chance of breaking slabs) raising process.
•    Our specially designed "Patented"  pump exerts less stress on your concrete
•    A-1 has an exemplary record of honoring our warranties,
•    A-1 is a fully insured contractor
•    A-1 uses State-Of-The-Art  Equipment and Technology

Is Concrete Leveling a seasonal business? 

Most of our work is done from April 1^st through the end of November.  Since we use a material that is mixed with water and pumped through hoses, our equipment is vulnerable to problems associated with freezing conditions.  We do provide free estimates throughout the year.  

Why does A-1 have a waiting list of 7 days to 3 weeks? 

A-1's services are always in high demand. We have gained an excellent reputation for providing high-quality work, reasonable prices, and honoring our warranty.   As a result, we do have a 7-day to 3 week wait during most of the working season.   

Caveat Emptor.  Buyer beware of any Contractor who: 

·       Pressures you to do work immediately or wants payment in advance of work

·       Does not put quotes and Warranties in writing

·       Does not have local references

·       Can not provide you with proof of Insurance upon request 

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.

Do I need to be home when the estimator comes?
Generally, 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. If the area in question, is inside a secured area (attached garage or inside floor), an appointment can be arranged.

Do you have references?
Yes, A1 works with most of the cities and municipalities in the Summit, Medina, Portage and Wayne Counties.  You may also check with the local Better Business Bureau  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 Akron Metropolitan area, by offering superior service, rapid response time and unsurpassed workmanship.