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concrete repair Ogden, Utah

Is Mudjacking a Long-Lasting Concrete Repair Solution?

No one in Ogden, Utah, wants to redo a concrete repair project after a short period of time, as that would be like throwing money down the drain. However, those who choose mudjacking don’t have that concern.

Generally speaking, concrete that is raised and leveled using the mudjacking method remains stable, secure and trouble-free for at least 8 to 10 years. With mudjacking, instabilities in the underlying soil are eliminated, which keeps the concrete from sinking and cracking again. The efficacy is well-proven, too — mudjacking has been in use since the 1930’s, and today’s professional concrete repair contractors continue to rely on the technique.

However, certain factors can impact how long a slab stands strong after mudjacking. If you’re planning to get concrete repair, follow the advice below for long-term results.

Issues that Contribute to Concrete Problems

The expansive nature of the soil here in Ogden, Utah, and the freeze-and-thaw cycles we get every winter might be the reason you need concrete repair. That said, if any of the following played a role, addressing the issue is essential for mudjacking to be a long-term solution:

  • Drainage – Downspouts that direct rain and melting snow toward a slab are sure to make the concrete settle more quickly.
  • Property grade – If the slope of the ground isn’t built up properly, water will flow into the soil under a slab, making it unstable.
  • Plant roots – Without root barrier systems, trees and shrubs growing too near a slab can cause settlement problems.
  • Burrowing pests – Voles, moles and groundhogs create underground tunnels, affecting the integrity of the slab above.

Long-Term Results Require Concrete Repair Expertise

Countless videos and do-it-yourself guides to mudjacking can be found online, and using that information, some Ogden property owners decide to handle the concrete repair work themselves. But for long-lasting results, this isn’t the right route to take.

Planning a mudjacking project means making several decisions, including how many holes to drill through the slab, where to place each one, what type of slurry mixture to use and how much of the mixture to pump into the soil. Online tutorials make all of this seem simple, but without training, knowledge and skill in concrete repair, that certainly isn’t the case. With that in mind, hiring an experienced professional contractor – like Lift-Up Concrete – is the best way to ensure good results with mudjacking.

In addition, taking the right steps after mudjacking can make a major difference in how long a slab remains in a stable and level position. At Lift-Up Concrete, we recommend:

  • Immediately caulking the drilled holes and any cracks in the concrete to keep rain and melting snow from penetrating the surface
  • Periodically resealing the concrete to strengthen its waterproof properties and help prevent the surface from chipping and cracking

Schedule a Consultation with Lift-Up Concrete Today 

The professional team at Lift-Up Concrete completes every mudjacking project with expert workmanship, and we’re happy to help property owners with caulking and resealing. We’re the company to call for both residential and commercial concrete repair projects in Ogden, Utah, and a free consultation with us comes with absolutely no obligation. Contact us today!

concrete lifting Salt Lake City, Utah

Concrete Lifting vs. Concrete Slab Replacement – Which is Better?

Improper grading, frost heaving, poor water drainage, unstable soil – in Salt Lake City, Utah, concrete can sink and crack for any number of reasons. No matter the cause, however, concrete lifting is usually the right solution.

Otherwise known as mudjacking, concrete lifting is recommended over slab replacement for the repair of cracked sidewalks, tilted driveways, sloped patios, uneven porch steps, sagging garages and other settlement-related issues. Of course, being that we’re a professional concrete lifting company, you’d expect us to speak highly of the service.

Still, we do have several good reasons for saying that mudjacking is the better option. And after reading about how the repair method compares to slab replacement, you’ll appreciate our point of view.

Cost

In almost every situation, slab replacement is far more expensive than concrete lifting. The demolition and removal of the old slab must be factored into the price, as does the process of pouring new concrete. The entire project requires a great deal of manpower, too, and labor charges can be substantial.

Taking all of this into consideration, the total cost to tear out and replace a slab is typically two to three times the cost of mudjacking. Choose concrete lifting, and your wallet will certainly thank you.

Time

Slab replacement isn’t a quick project. Tearing out the damaged concrete, prepping the area and pouring a new slab can take days – and at that point, the surface isn’t usable. Newly poured concrete needs time to cure to be capable of supporting any weight, and curing can take several weeks.

In contrast, concrete lifting offers much faster results. From start to finish, most projects take no more than a couple of hours to complete. No curing time is needed, and the surface can handle heavy weight after just a few hours. 

Aesthetics

When first installed, new slabs have a nice look. This is also true when all of the concrete around a Salt Lake City home or business property is replaced at the same time. However, if just one or two slabs are ripped out and repoured, the concrete tends to look mismatched.

With concrete lifting, very little evidence is left behind. A few small homes are drilled through the slab, but once the concrete has been leveled and stabilized, the holes and surface cracks are caulked to provide a uniform appearance. 

Efficacy

While many people seem to think that replacing a settled slab is the right way to ensure that the surface is strong and secure, the opposite is actually true. The slab tear-out and replacement process doesn’t address instabilities in the underlying soil, and without that step, the new concrete is at risk of settling in the future.

Not so with concrete lifting. Holes are drilled through the affected slab, and voids in the soil underneath are filled with a cement-based slurry. As this solves the root cause of the problem, the stability of the concrete is restored.  

Messiness

Ripping out and replacing a settled slab requires heavy machinery, and Salt Lake City property owners often find the large, invasive tools and loud concrete trucks to be a nuisance. Worse than that, though, is the mess this equipment can create – in many cases, the grass and plants around the work area are ruined.

Landscape damage isn’t a concern with concrete lifting. The repair process involves just a single truck, and that remains parked in the driveway or on the street. Machinery may snake across the yard, but this doesn’t disrupt the landscaping. 

Sustainability

Given the energy-hungry machinery and gas-guzzling trucks required, slab replacement is far from eco-friendly. But that’s not the only reason this isn’t a sustainable solution. Torn-out concrete is sometimes taken to a recycling center, but more often than not, it goes to a local landfill — where it sits forever.

Concrete lifting is a much greener option. Not only is the cement-based slurry used made of natural materials, but the process also requires only a minimal amount energy. What’s more, with mudjacking, no waste is produced.

Situations that Call for Slab Replacement

At Lift-Up Concrete, we specialize in concrete lifting, but we recognize that not every settled slab is suited for mudjacking. Meeting the needs of our customers is important to us, so when replacement is the right choice, we make that known. A few scenarios where mudjacking isn’t our recommendation include:

  • Extensive damage – If a slab is badly crumbled or contains large, deep cracks, replacing it may be the only option.
  • Surface imperfections – Concrete with surface defects or discolorations may need to be replaced, as those issues don’t go away with mudjacking.
  • Multiple problems – With a slab that has both structural and cosmetic damage, concrete lifting may not be the best solution.

In most circumstances, mudjacking is the most effective and most reliable form of repair. And as we explained above, mudjacking also has several other advantages over slab replacement. But is it the right choice for you? To answer that question, you’ll need a professional opinion. For expert advice in Salt Lake City, Utah, contact Lift-Up Concrete and schedule a free, no-obligation concrete lifting consultation today.

mudjacking Ogden, Utah

Mudjacking – A Low-Cost Utah Concrete Repair Method

So, you have a settled slab at your Ogden, Utah, home. You’ve looked into concrete repair, and mudjacking is the cheapest method – the price is far less than any other option.

But don’t you get what you pay for? If you go with mudjacking to minimize the cost of fixing your settled concrete, won’t you end up regretting the decision?

Absolutely not. While making a choice based on price might not be all that wise for some home improvement projects, that’s not the case for concrete repair. Mudjacking is a highly effective technique, one that’s been in use for decades – and it’s also the most affordable way to raise and stabilize a settled slab. Here’s why.

Mudjacking Doesn’t Require Costly Materials

Mudjacking restores settled concrete by means of a mud-like slurry mixture, typically made of Portland cement, pulverized limestone, water, sand and other organic materials. The air pockets in the soil under a slab are filled with this mixture, and pressure raises the concrete into position.

Since the slurry contains only natural materials, it’s rather inexpensive. And reputable concrete repair companies – like Lift-Up Concrete – pass the savings along by charging a minimal price for the mixture.

Mudjacking is a Quick and Easy Repair Method

For experienced concrete repair professionals, the process of raising and stabilizing a settled slab is routine – and it doesn’t take much time. Whether restoring a sunken sidewalk, uneven driveway, tilted patio or another concrete surface, contractors can usually get the job done in an hour or two.

Given that repairs are both fast and easy, labor charges for mudjacking projects tend to be on the low side. Unlike other solutions for settled concrete, the cost of labor isn’t much of a concern with mudjacking.

Mudjacking Isn’t a Short-Term Repair Solution

Mudjacking addresses the reason a slab has settled – the development of air pockets in the soil underneath. Over time, changes in the moisture level lead to shifting, and these voids are the result. After mudjacking, no more pockets of air remain, and the concrete is back to its original position.

The mud-like slurry mixture used in mudjacking is incredibly strong, durable enough to last for quite some time. Utah homeowners who make sure the concrete is caulked and sealed don’t need to pay for a repeat repair for at least 8 to 10 years.

Schedule a Free Mudjacking Consultation Today

Lift-Up Concrete, a leading northern Utah concrete repair company, has years of experience completing all kinds of projects. With us, you can expect top-quality, long-lasting results – and the cost of our services is sure to make you smile.

If you have settled concrete at your Ogden home, contact Lift-Up Concrete and request a free, no-obligation mudjacking consultation today.

concrete leveling Utah

Is Concrete Leveling a Good Idea? Info for Utah Homeowners

Maybe you’ve noticed cracks in the walkways and sidewalks surrounding your Utah home. Or perhaps your porch steps have sunk a few inches. In any case, concrete leveling is certainly worthy of your consideration.

Also referred to as concrete lifting, slab leveling or mudjacking, concrete leveling is a method of repair for settled slabs. The process involves drilling small holes to reach the soil voids under the concrete and using a hydraulic pump to fill those voids with a cement slurry mixture. Pressure lifts the slab back to its original even position, then the cracks and drilled holes are caulked. That’s really all there is to leveling concrete – but is the repair right for your damaged slab?

Concrete lifting is an excellent option for Utah homeowners, but it isn’t the only option. Before committing to having your settled slab professionally leveled, read the following to get the information you need.

Why Bother Repairing Settled Concrete?

We get it – repairing the settled slabs around your Utah home doesn’t seem all that important. If you’re like most people, the project probably isn’t one of your top priorities. However, scheduling concrete leveling soon is in your best interests.

Cracked and sunken slabs are trip hazards. Utah homeowners have a responsibility to keep their properties safe, and ignoring settled concrete opens up the possibility of a premises liability lawsuit. If you hold off on addressing the issue and someone gets hurt, you may end up paying a rather high price.

In addition, concrete settlement can create problems around your property. Left unaddressed, affected slabs can cause rain and melting snow to flow in the wrong direction. If there’s any water runoff along the foundation, it can settle, pulling away from the house structure. As that happens, cracks may develop in the walls of your home and the doors and windows may begin to stick. Foundation settlement isn’t an issue that can be resolved with concrete leveling, and the fix is quite costly. However, if you go ahead and repair your settled slabs now, eliminating your drainage issues, you can preserve the foundation of your Utah home.

Also, we have to ask – are you planning to live in your current home forever? If not, concrete repair may be a must at some point. Home buyers are put off by settled slabs, as they can be a sign of foundation damage. And even if that isn’t the case, people may see your cracked and sunken concrete as a sign that you haven’t taken care of the property. At any rate, your Utah home could sit on the market for quite some time if you don’t address the problem.

Advantages of Concrete Leveling

Now that you’re clear on the reasons to move forward with concrete repair, you need a solution. When faced with cracked or sunken slabs, homeowners in Utah and across the country depend on concrete leveling to eliminate the problem. Take a look at the upsides, and you’ll understand why.

Price

One of the most impressive benefits of concrete leveling is the cost. As long as a slab isn’t badly crumbled or severely riddled with cracks, it can likely be mudjacked for far less than any other repair solution would cost.

Time

Most residential concrete leveling projects are completed in less than a day – and there’s no waiting for the slab to cure. The surface can handle foot traffic right away, and a few hours later, it can support much heavier weight.

Appearance

Matching a new slab to the surrounding concrete is nearly impossible. With slab leveling, this isn’t a concern – the surface remains the same, and the caulk used is closely color-matched to the concrete, making the repair almost invisible.

Impact

The process of concrete leveling is minimally invasive, and professional contractors make every effort to preserve the landscape while completing the work. Homeowners who go with a different solution are often forced to deal with damaged yards.

Other Options for Settled Concrete Slabs

While concrete leveling is typically the best fix for settled slabs, Utah homeowners do have other options. If you have cracked or sunken concrete anywhere on your property, you could choose any of these game plans:

Leave the Slab Alone

Waiting awhile might be okay if the damage isn’t too severe, but you shouldn’t put off the repair for too long. As we said above, settled slabs can lead to costly foundation problems. And, of course, you could be sued if someone is injured while on your property. In the long run, doing nothing could cost you.

Replace the Concrete

Tearing out and replacing the concrete will solve your problem, but going this route comes with significant drawbacks. The cost is typically two to three times higher than that for concrete leveling, and you can expect the work to disrupt the surrounding landscape. Plus, the slab will be unusable for a couple of weeks.

Go for Foamjacking

Similar process to mudjacking, foamjacking is effective — but not nearly as budget-friendly. What’s more, the polyurethane foam used contains flammable chemicals, while the slurry used for traditional concrete leveling is organic. The foam sets much faster, too, and if it hardens before the soil voids are filled, slab stability can be affected.

Schedule a Free Concrete Leveling Consultation Today

Have you decided that mudjacking is the right fix for your cracked or sunken slab? For expert service at a nice price, Utah homeowners rely on the professional team at Lift-Up Concrete. Contact us to arrange for a free, no-obligation concrete leveling consultation today!HHave you decided

concrete repair Salt Lake City

How to Save Money on Concrete Repair in Salt Lake City

Are you in need of concrete repair? Fixing a settled driveway, sunken patio, uneven walkway or any other damaged slab can restore the curb appeal of your Salt Lake City home or business and help keep everyone who visits safe.

With any property improvement project, cost is a consideration. Fortunately, while dealing with slab damage can be an expensive endeavor, there are ways you can cut the cost of concrete repair without sacrificing quality. Here, the professional team at Lift-Up Concrete shares tips on how to get the job done for an affordable price.

Address the Issue Early

Small cracks in a concrete slab or a slightly tilted surface might seem like a minor problem, but left unresolved, the damage is only going to get worse as time goes on.

A greater amount of damage requires more extensive – and more expensive – repair work. As such, the key to saving money on concrete repair is to act quickly, contacting a qualified Salt Lake City contractor without delay. Hold off for too long, and you might have no choice but to tear out and replace the damaged slab. That’s a costly project.

Choose the Right Repair

Many people think that replacing a damaged slab is the only option or the best option, and in most cases, neither is true. Mudjacking is more effective – and it costs less.

Mudjacking offers long-lasting results because it addresses the cause of damage to a slab, resolving instabilities in the soil underneath. The slab tear-out and replacement process costs two to three times as much as mudjacking, but soil stabilization isn’t involved – which means newly poured concrete is likely to crack and settle in the future.

Don’t Take the DIY Route

These days, articles and videos about concrete repair are widely available online. So, why not find a good walkthrough and deal with the damaged slab yourself?

That approach isn’t going to save you much money. The cost of making the cement slurry mixture and renting the necessary equipment is pretty close to what you’d pay a professional contractor to handle the task. What’s more, given that you likely don’t have training or experience, attempting a DIY concrete repair could make the problem worse.

Hire the Right Contractor

Before hiring a professional to restore your cracked, settled or sunken slab, take the time to do a bit of research – you need to find a well-qualified Salt Lake City contractor.

For high-quality mudjacking, you need to hire an expert in concrete repair, a licensed professional who’s been serving the Salt Lake City area for several years. Sure, you might save money by going with a brand new company or hiring a local handyman. But their lack of skill is likely to show – and their work may not stand the test of time.

Maintain Your Concrete

Choose mudjacking, and you shouldn’t need to plan a repeat concrete repair anytime soon. With preventive maintenance, the results can last a decade or longer.

What does it take to keep a concrete slab in good shape? Caulking the cracks immediately after mudjacking is crucial, and to prevent moisture infiltration, you’ll want to seal the surface periodically. These tasks aren’t too challenging, but if you’d rather not add to your chore list, you can have a professional contractor handle the work.

Time Your Repair Work

In Salt Lake City, the busiest time for concrete repair tends to be in the summer – and like other property improvement projects, the price is often higher in the peak season.

If you plan your mudjacking project for the spring or fall, when professional contractors usually have more availability in their schedules, the cost may be less. Early winter can be an option, too, but only if temperatures have been mild. And, you can always ask if moving your concrete repair to a different date or time would result in a better price.

Contact Lift-Up Concrete for a Free Concrete Repair Consultation

How much will it cost to fix your damaged slab? Getting quotes from a few Salt Lake City concrete repair companies is the best way to make sure you pay a fair price for the work you need done – but then again, cost shouldn’t be your only consideration.

For your project to be a long-term success, the contractor you choose needs to have the right credentials. Professional training and extensive experience are essential, of course, as are insurance and a license to engage in concrete repair work in the state of Utah. And while the vast majority of mudjacking projects go exactly as planned, with no issues afterward, it’s a good idea to go with a company that guarantees their work.

Lift-Up Concrete fits the description above – and along with affordable pricing, we’re known for stellar workmanship and outstanding customer service. You don’t have to believe us, though, as we’re happy to provide references from recent projects. For more information, or to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation and estimate for concrete repair at your Salt Lake City home or business property, contact us today.

concrete repair Ogden, Utah

Problems a Qualified Ogden Concrete Repair Contractor Can Solve

Why would you need to contact an Ogden concrete repair contractor?

The climate in northern Utah is no friend to the concrete on your property, and the composition of the soil here makes the ground underneath subject to the development of large voids. Cracking, settlement and unevenness in a slab are signs that this has occurred – and calling an experienced local concrete repair contractor can help you avoid the following issues.

Water Drainage Problems

Concrete that is cracked and settled can create drainage issues around your Ogden home.

When a slab is damaged, rain and melting snow can easily flow in the wrong direction, leaving you with pools of water. Fail to address the problem, and you might end up with foundation damage. That’s costly to repair, yet without a fix, the structural integrity of your home could be affected.

Get in touch with a professional concrete repair contractor, and you can avoid that outcome. Mudjacking is a simple, inexpensive technique that can restore a slab to its original even and stable position.

Property Hazard Concerns

If you know that your Ogden property has cracked, uneven concrete, you could be named in a premises liability lawsuit.

Anyone who walks across a damaged slab could fall and suffer a serious injury. If that happens to a friend or family member visiting your home, heading to court likely isn’t a worry. But if a neighbor, UPS driver or food deliverer is injured, you could be sued – and you may be held financially responsible for their medical costs and lost income.

Call an experienced concrete repair contractor as soon as you spot a slab with damage, and that won’t be a concern. Mudjacking can eliminate the trip-and-fall hazard, and by doing so, keep you from falling into a lawsuit.

Issues with Unsightly Concrete

Cracked and settled slabs are eyesores — and while that might not bother you now, your opinion may change at some point.

Why might you suddenly care about your unattractive concrete? In the event you decide to sell your home, potential buyers may see the damage and reject your property. Cracking and settlement can be signs of foundation problems, and those are rather expensive to resolve.

Get concrete repair now, before the damage grows extensive, and you can expect the project to be affordable. Mudjacking is the cheapest method of lifting a slab and restoring its integrity, and the results typically last for at least 8 to 10 years.

Contact Lift-Up Concrete Today

Do you have cracked, sunken or settled concrete at your Ogden home? Lift-Up Concrete is the company to call.

As a leading northern Utah concrete repair contractor, our professional team has the knowledge, skill and expertise to recommend the right fix. Often, that’s mudjacking, but if your damaged slab requires a different solution, we’ll let you know – and we’ll suggest the easiest, most affordable option.

For a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss concrete repair at a property anywhere in or around Ogden, Utah, contact us today.

concrete lifting Ogden, Utah

Concrete Lifting – An Affordable & Effective Fix for Settled Slabs

Concrete lifting, or mudjacking, is the least expensive fix for a settled slab at a residential property in Ogden, Utah. The price is far lower than other methods of concrete repair — but don’t you get what you pay for? If you go with mudjacking, will you come to regret that choice?

Not at all. While the cheapest way of solving a problem isn’t always the best route to take with most home improvement projects, that isn’t the case for concrete repair. As long as you have a reputable company like Lift-Up Concrete handle the work, concrete lifting can provide an affordable, high-quality fix for settled slabs. Here’s what homeowners in Ogden need to know.

Concrete Lifting is a Proven Repair Technique

In our experience, many people throughout northern Utah are unfamiliar with mudjacking – but the technique of concrete lifting isn’t new.

Developed back in the 1930’s, mudjacking was initially used to lift and stabilize concrete highways, airline runways, dams and roadways. Later on, contractors began to rely on mudjacking for small-scale commercial and residential projects. The repair method has a long history of success, and it’s been proven to work for just about any settled slab. For uneven sidewalks, slanted driveways, sunken porch steps, sagging patios, lopsided pool decks and tilted garage floors, mudjacking is a highly effective fix.

Concrete Lifting Offers Attractive Results

Settled slabs have a negative impact on curb appeal, but after mudjacking, damaged concrete no longer diminishes the charm of an Ogden residential property.

During the concrete lifting process, a few small holes are drilled in the affected slab. Once the concrete has been leveled and caulk has been applied, however, these holes are virtually invisible. The same is true of any cracks in the concrete, and with caulk that’s a close match in color to the original slab, the outcome is aesthetically pleasing. Many people find the results to be superior to what can be achieved with a tear-out and replacement project, as newly poured concrete is often rather conspicuous.

Concrete Lifting is the Greenest Repair Option

Mudjacking isn’t just an effective, low-cost repair technique that offers appealing results – it’s also the most eco-friendly solution for a settled slab.

The cement-based mixture used is comprised of completely natural ingredients like Portland cement and limestone aggregate. Not only does the slurry contain no synthetic fillers or chemicals, but professional contractors take care to ensure that none of the mudjacking material is wasted. Add in the fact that concrete lifting requires very little fossil fuel energy – just a single truck with a hydraulic pump and a powerful drill — and it’s easy to see why it’s the green approach.

The Many Benefits of Concrete Lifting

We’ve already mentioned that concrete lifting is the cheapest repair option, one that’s proven to work and provides aesthetically appealing results. We’ve also explained what makes mudjacking a sustainable repair solution. But, these aren’t the only reasons it’s often considered to be the best fix for a settled slab.

Why is concrete lifting the recommended approach? Ogden homeowners who go with mudjacking also enjoy the following advantages:

  • Value – Filling the air pockets in the soil under a slab with the cement-based mudjacking mixture addresses the cause of the problem and makes the concrete more stable and secure. The slab tear-out and replacement process doesn’t, and opting for that sort of fix means settlement is likely to reoccur.
  • Longevity – Since mudjacking works to fill the empty spaces in the underlying soil, the results are long-lasting. In Ogden, Utah, most settled slabs that are lifted and stabilized through concrete lifting remain anchored in position for at least 8 to 10 years. The same can’t be said of slab replacement.
  • Time – In most cases, mudjacking projects can be completed within just a couple of hours. Afterwards, the slab is ready for light use immediately, and heavy weight by the next morning. Slab replacement can take weeks to complete, and with curing needed, the surface may be unusable for a month or more.

What’s more, mudjacking isn’t a messy project. Once complete, the nearby landscaping looks the same – there’s no damage from the truck or the machinery. In contrast, the demolition work involved in a slab tear-out and replacement project can really wreak havoc on the landscape. We don’t think any Ogden homeowner wants that problem when the work crew leaves.

Schedule a Free Consultation with Lift-Up Concrete Today

Is concrete lifting the best solution for your settled slab? Probably – but to get an expert opinion at no cost, schedule a consultation with the Lift-Up Concrete team.

With our knowledge, skill and years of experience, we have what it takes to overcome concrete settlement and provide high-quality, long-lasting results. We’re known for our affordable pricing and exceptional customer service, and if we can’t save your slab through mudjacking, you can count on us to find an approach that appeals to your needs.

For more information on mudjacking and the other services we offer at Lift-Up Concrete, or to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss concrete lifting for a settled slab at your Ogden, Utah, home, contact our office today.

concrete lifting Salt Lake City

Concrete Lifting Can Abolish Trip Hazards at Salt Lake City Homes

While concrete-related trip hazards are often more of a concern with commercial properties in Salt Lake City, Utah, homeowners can benefit from concrete lifting, too – and getting the work done provides more than an aesthetic boost.

How so? Well, if you own a residential property and you know there’s an area in need concrete repair, you may be held financially liable if someone falls and injures themselves. The same might be true if a trip hazard exists that you, as the homeowner, should have discovered. Concrete lifting can help you avoid these potential liability concerns. Here are the most common concrete-related issues that you may need to address to protect your interests and keep your Salt Lake City property safe.

Cracked Driveways

Typically one of the largest slabs on a residential property, the driveway handles a great deal of weight and pressure on a regular basis. Over time, as the soil underneath expands, contracts and shifts in response to the moisture level, driveways can develop cracks. Depending on the exact location, these cracks can serve as trip hazards, but a professional concrete repair contractor can eliminate the problem.

Sinking Sidewalks

Damaged and deteriorated sidewalks are another liability concern. While the local public services department handles sidewalk repair in some parts of northern Utah, that isn’t the case here – in Salt Lake City, the adjacent property owner is responsible. When the sidewalks near a home sink and become trip hazards, concrete lifting is a solution – but for those who take advantage of the 50/50 concrete program, the City shares the cost.

Uneven Steps & Porches

Many Salt Lake City homes have steps leading up to the front and/or back doors, and porches are common features of residential properties. These slabs are usually put in place late in the building process or during renovations, and being separate sections of concrete, they’re more susceptible to sinking than foundational slabs. Fortunately, concrete lifting can eliminate hazards and lower the liability risk.

Settled Pool Decks

For homeowners who have in-ground swimming pools, slab settlement can pose a significant danger. If the soil surrounding the pool area wasn’t properly compacted, or if there’s another issue – like improper ground slope, frost heave or water infiltration – the pool could lose its structural integrity. When a pool deck starts to sink and settle, prompt concrete lifting can make the swimming area safe for everyone to enjoy.

Do you have any concrete-related trip hazards? If your home is in Salt Lake City or the surrounding northern Utah area, Lift-Up Concrete is the company to call. Our team has the experience and skill to address liability concerns, and with us, repairing a damaged slab is affordable.

For details on our services, or to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss concrete lifting, contact us today.

concrete repair Utah

Why Do Slabs Settle? Reasons Utah Homeowners Get Concrete Repair

A cracked and settled slab can have a negative effect on both the value and the curb appeal of your Utah home. Concrete repair can reverse that, while also making the landscape less of a safety hazard. But, you no doubt already knew all of this – and what you need to know is why slabs settle.

If you don’t already have a settled slab at your home, you’ll likely face this issue at some point. As any residential concrete repair contractor in Utah will tell you, settlement and cracking are pretty much inevitable. That’s just the nature of concrete.

However, if you understand what might cause the slabs surrounding your home to settle, you may be able to address some of the problems and stave off the need for concrete repair. Below, the experienced professional team at Lift-Up Concrete explains the reasons slab settlement commonly occurs in Utah.

Soil Composition

Clay-rich soils are prevalent throughout the state of Utah. When saturated, this type of soil expands, and when it dries out, it contracts. As this action continues over time, concrete can shift out of place.

Concrete Problems

Mistakes made when a slab is installed can lead to the need for concrete repair. For example, using faulty footings or the wrong water-to-cement ratio might cause a slab to sink, settle and crack.

Poor Compaction

Similarly, concrete settlement can also be the result of poor preparation during the initial slab installation. If the soil isn’t compacted properly, air pockets remain under the concrete, causing it to sink.

Ground Slope

Excess moisture in the soil may be to blame for concrete instability and settlement in Utah. When the ground is sloped directly toward a slab, water runoff can easily infiltrate the soil underneath.

Drainage Issues

Water infiltration isn’t always due to ground slope – sometimes, a home’s gutter system is the problem. Downspouts need to be directed away from the concrete, or pooling water can lead to settled slabs.

Soil Washout

Concrete repair might also be necessary if a sudden gush of water creates gaps under a slab and causes it to settle. Utah homeowners face this problem with serious plumbing leaks and after heavy rainfall.

Frost Heaving

In Utah, frost heave often occurs. Snow melts into the earth and the temperature plunges, making the water freeze. Once it thaws, the soil contracts. Repeated over the course of winter, this is problematic.

Burrowing Animals

Voles, mice, rates and other critters like to dig tunnels under concrete, and in doing so, compromise a slab’s integrity. Settlement is the result, and when animals cause a slab to sink, concrete repair is the solution. 

Bulging Tree Roots

Trees growing close to a slab can also be responsible for concrete settlement around a Utah home. As the root system extends into the soil underneath a slab, the resulting pressure can cause it to sink and crack.

What Utah Homeowners Need to Know About Concrete Repair

While concrete repair might not be at the top of your to-do list, putting off the project isn’t in your best interests. If you have any settled slabs at your Utah home, dealing with the issue now is wise for a few reasons.

Repairing settled concrete is important because:

  • Sunken and cracked concrete isn’t just an aesthetic issues – it’s a safety risk.
  • A Utah homeowner may be liable if damaged concrete is the cause of an injury.
  • Settled slabs can create drainage issues and pooling water around a property.
  • After concrete repair has been completed, the value of a Utah home increases.

In addition, holding off on concrete repair isn’t a good idea, as the longer you wait, the worse the settlement and damage will get. The bigger the problem, the more costly the solution – and if you put off the project for too long, repairing a settled slab may not be possible. In that case, tearing out and replacing the concrete would be the only option, and that’s a much more expensive endeavor.

Why Not Take the Do-It-Yourself Approach to Concrete Repair?

Many Utah homeowners think that fixing a settled slab is simple, and that watching a few videos and reading a tutorial or two teaches you everything you need to know. That’s not the case – and going the DIY route isn’t such a good idea.

Concrete repair requires specialized tools, and attempting to address slab settlement without the right equipment could result in additional damage. Sure, you could rent or purchase a high-power concrete drill and a hydraulic pump, but creating a stable cement slurry to inject into the soil voids isn’t easy. And, you’ll just be guessing where and how much of the slurry mixture needs to be injected, so your efforts may only provide a temporary fix.

What’s more, do-it-yourself concrete repair is likely to give you amateurish results. With an experienced professional contractor, the repair work is nearly invisible and evidence of any slab settlement will be difficult to spot.

Contact Lift-Up Concrete for a Free Concrete Repair Consultation

The professional team at Lift-Up Concrete has the skill, knowledge and expertise to fix slabs that settle, sink and crack. We offer affordable, high-quality service – and in most cases, we can restore a settled slab in just an hour or two. For a free, no-obligation concrete repair consultation at your Utah home, contact us today!

concrete repair Ogden

Mudjacking: An Environmentally Responsible Concrete Repair Method

Mudjacking, or slab leveling, is almost always the ideal concrete repair solution for a cracked, sunken or settled slab. It’s quick, effective and less costly than the alternatives, making it the most practical option for Ogden property owners.

The cherry on top? Mudjacking is also an eco-friendly method of concrete repair, allowing you to fix the damaged concrete at your northern Utah home or business without leaving a large carbon footprint. Here’s what makes slab leveling an environmentally sound repair technique.

Natural Materials

Mudjacking involves a cement-based slurry, which is pumped through the concrete and into the soil underneath. No chemicals or synthetic fillers go into the slurry – it typically contains Portland cement, water, limestone aggregate and other organic materials. As the grout mixture used is completely natural, slab leveling is an eco-friendly concrete repair solution.

No Wasted Resources

During the mudjacking process, the mudlike slurry spreads out, filling the air cavities in the soil and creating pressure, which works to level and stabilize the slab. Professional contractors carefully control the amount of grout going into the ground, only pumping through enough to get the job done. Nothing is wasted, which helps keep the environment clean.

Not Much Energy Use

Slab leveling requires just one truck, equipped with a powerful drill and a hydraulic pump. A minimal amount of fossil fuel energy is needed to run the equipment, and a few hours is all it takes to complete most Ogden concrete repair projects. Since mudjacking doesn’t involve lots of power-hungry gear and gas-guzzling trucks, the environmental impact is minimized.

No Landscape Damage

When an Ogden concrete repair project is complete and work crew leaves the property, the look of the landscape isn’t all that different from when they arrived. Experienced professional contractors — like Lift-Up Concrete — make sure to park the work truck out of the way and take great care to ensure no environmental or landscaping damage is done. Really, the only change is the levelled slab.

Do You Need Concrete Repair?

At Lift-Up Concrete, doing what we can to protect the local northern Utah environment is a responsibility we take quite seriously. Practicing sustainable repair techniques and placing less of a demand on nature is important to us – and we’re just as committed to customer satisfaction.

Turn to us for slab leveling, and you can expect top-notch workmanship and stellar service. Mudjacking will be affordable, too, and you’ll enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you’re making an environmentally responsible choice.

For more information on mudjacking, or to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss concrete repair at your home or business in Ogden, Utah, get in touch with Lift-Up Concrete today.