Concrete Floor Leveling: Everything You Need To Know

Learn all about professional concrete floor leveling services.

If you’ve noticed that your basement floor is sinking or that your garage floor is sloping to one side, it might be time to consider concrete leveling.

This process not only enhances the looks of your space but also ensures safety and the structural integrity of the concrete itself.

At A-1 Concrete Leveling, we’ve been perfecting this process for over 30 years, offering homeowners a reliable and efficient solution to their uneven concrete problems.

What Is Concrete Floor Leveling?

If your concrete floor is sloping to one side, sinking and settling, or falling away from the walls, it can likely be raised back up with a process called concrete leveling.

This process works to lift the concrete slab back up to its original position and fill any voids underneath, creating a stable base that helps prevent future settling.

How Does Concrete Floor Leveling Work?

Concrete floor leveling is a straightforward process that's usually completed in less than a day.

The primary methods used are stone slurry grout and foam leveling, and they both follow the same steps:

1. Drill Holes: Small, strategically placed holes are drilled into the settled concrete slab.

2. Pump Leveling Compound: A mixture of agricultural limestone and water (AKA “stone slurry”) or polyurethane foam is pumped through the holes into the voids beneath the slab.

3. Lift the Slab: The pressure from the slurry or expanding foam lifts the slab back to its original position.

4. Seal the Holes: Once the slab is level, the holes are filled with non-shrink grout, ensuring a smooth finish.

Foam vs. Stone Slurry Grout for Lifting Concrete Floors

Both leveling methods are effective for lifting sunken concrete floors, but the choice between them depends on the specific circumstances of your project.

Stone slurry grout is typically more durable and better at filling large voids, while foam leveling can be less messy during the process and is often preferred for interior projects.

Read More: Stone Slurry Grout vs. Foam Concrete Leveling - Which Is Better?

Concrete Leveling vs. Self-Leveling Concrete

While they are often confused, concrete leveling and self-leveling concrete are very different processes/products that address two distinct problems.

Concrete leveling…

• Targets the root cause of uneven concrete by filling voids beneath the slab.
• Provides a long-lasting solution by replacing and stabilizing the slab’s foundation.
• Is ideal for minor to significant settling issues.

Self-leveling concrete…

• Is a cement-like compound that spreads across the surface to fill minor dips and surface imperfections.
• Is best for preparing uneven surfaces for installing flooring.
• Does not address underlying voids or settling issues.

For floors with significant settling or sloping, professional concrete leveling is the recommended solution.

If you are installing new flooring that requires tight tolerances, both concrete leveling and self-leveling concrete may be necessary to achieve your desired end goal.

Concrete Floor Leveling Pricing

In general, concrete floor leveling can cost between $1,260 to $8,100. This big range can be pretty intimidating, but the final cost of concrete floor leveling depends on factors like:

Size of the Floor: Larger areas require more material and labor.

Extent of Settling: More severe settling requires more extensive work.

Accessibility: Hard-to-reach areas or spaces with many obstacles are harder to work around.

Method Used: Foam leveling tends to be more expensive than stone slurry grout or mudjacking.

Location: Prices can vary depending on regional labor and material costs.

Related Resource: Concrete Leveling Costs [2024 Pricing Guide]

How To Prepare for Concrete Floor Leveling

Preparing your space for concrete leveling is crucial for a smooth and efficient repair process. Here’s how to get ready:

1. Assess Foundation: Ensure there are no major foundation issues causing the settling.

2. Clear the Area: Move furniture and personal items out of the work area.

3. Remove Flooring: Pull up carpeting, tiles, or hardwood to expose the concrete slab.

4. Provide Access: Ensure technicians have access to a working water spigot and clear paths for hoses and equipment.

5. Plan for Pets: Keep pets in a safe, secure area away from the work zone.

Proper preparation can help the technicians work more efficiently and ensure a successful leveling process.

Read More: How To Prepare for Concrete Floor Lifting

Concrete Floor Leveling FAQ

Is concrete leveling messy?

We strive to keep the process as clean as possible. Stone slurry grout can be messier than foam leveling, but we always take care to clean the area after the repair.

How long does concrete floor leveling take?

Most jobs are completed within 1-2 days, depending on the size and complexity of the project.

When can I use the space again?

Typically, you can start replacing flooring or using the space 24 hours after the leveling is complete.

Will the dips and uneven surfaces go away?

Concrete leveling addresses settling and sinking slabs by bringing them back up to an even position from the bottom up.

For surface imperfections, self-leveling concrete compounds can be poured over the existing concrete to smooth out dips, texture, and low spots.

Read More: Can You Pour Self-Leveling Concrete Over Existing Concrete?

Should You Level Your Concrete Floor?

Concrete floor leveling is a practical solution for addressing uneven floors caused by settling. It is a cost-effective way to restore your floors to an even position.

If you notice signs of settling or unevenness, consider consulting with a professional to determine if concrete leveling is the right choice for your home or business.

At A-1 Concrete Leveling, we’ve been helping homeowners with all things concrete for over 30 years. If you’re interested in seeing what concrete floor leveling can do for you, request a free onsite cost estimate with a nearby A-1 location.