Learn how concrete leveling, sealing, caulking, and cleaning services can help HOAs and COAs maintain safe and attractive concrete.
Sidewalks that trip, patios that tilt, and common areas that look worse for wear... These issues aren’t just an eyesore in communities managed by homeowner or condominium associations (HOAs and COAs). They’re safety hazards, budget busters, and potential legal liabilities.
Fortunately, there’s concrete leveling: a smarter, long-lasting way to keep concrete looking good and staying safe, without the disruption of replacement.
TL;DR
Homeowner and condominium associations can save money and improve safety by using concrete leveling to fix uneven sidewalks, patios, and more. Pairing leveling with caulking, sealing, and cleaning extends the life of the repair and keeps shared spaces looking their best.
In This Article
Why Concrete Settles in Shared Living Communities
Concrete poured during community construction tends to settle around the same time due to shared environmental conditions. Here are a few common culprits:
- Erosion from rain or poor drainage undermines the soil beneath slabs.
- Improper site compaction during original construction leads to long-term settling.
- Droughts or freeze-thaw cycles cause soil to shrink, shift, or expand.
- Tree root growth can lift and crack slabs over time.
When one property shows signs of sunken concrete, chances are nearby homes will follow.
Related Resource: Why Is My Concrete Sinking?
Concrete Leveling to Restore Walkways, Patios & More
Concrete leveling (also known as slabjacking or concrete lifting) is a repair method that raises settled slabs back into position.
How the Process Works:
- Drill: Small holes are drilled into the affected slab.
- Pump: A slurry of limestone and water is injected beneath the slab, filling voids and lifting the concrete.
- Patch: The holes are sealed with non-shrink grout, which blends in over time.
No demolition, no mismatched new slabs, and no weeks of downtime, just fast, durable results with minimal disruption.
Benefits for HOAs
Managing an HOA or COA comes with a balancing act between safety, aesthetics, and budgeting. Here’s how concrete leveling supports all three:
- Safety: Eliminates trip hazards in common areas, reducing liability.
- Curb Appeal: Restores clean, even lines to sidewalks, patios, and driveways.
- Affordability: Leveling can cost up to 70% less than replacement
- Speed: Most projects are completed in a matter of hours, not days.
- Long-Term Value: With proper maintenance, repairs can last the lifetime of the concrete
Additional Services for Long-Term HOA Concrete Care
Concrete leveling is just the first step in maintaining safe, long-lasting surfaces. HOAs and COAs can extend the life of their repairs and improve community appearance with three key services:
Caulking
Caulking cracks and joints with flexible concrete caulk prevents water intrusion, which is a leading cause of resettling and erosion beneath slabs. It's a small step that offers big protection.
Sealing
Concrete sealers create a moisture barrier that protects against weather, de-icing salts, stains, and surface wear. Regular sealing helps preserve both the strength and appearance of your concrete.
Cleaning
Professional cleaning removes built-up grime, algae, and stains to restore the fresh look of sidewalks and patios. It also preps the surface for effective sealing.
FAQ
1. How much can HOAs save by choosing concrete leveling over replacement?
Concrete leveling can cost up to 70% less than full replacement, making it a budget-friendly option for maintaining large shared areas.
2. Is concrete leveling a long-term solution for HOAs?
Yes, when done correctly and paired with proper maintenance, leveling repairs can last the lifetime of the concrete slab itself.
3. What maintenance should HOAs do after leveling is complete?
To keep repairs lasting, HOAs should seal cracks with concrete caulk, apply sealer to protect the surface, and schedule regular cleaning to prevent staining.
Who We Work With
We tailor our services to your needs, whether that’s coordinating directly with the association board or working one-on-one with individual unit owners. Many HOAs choose to budget for annual concrete inspections and repairs, which helps tackle issues before they become hazards.
Our team is equipped to handle projects of any size, from a single walkway to dozens of units across an entire neighborhood. Request a free estimate today!
Still Deciding?
Interested in a long-term solution for your community's concrete? Learn more about how concrete leveling compares to full replacement at Concrete Academy:
Sarah Etler
Sarah Etler joined A-1 Concrete Leveling after receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Northern Kentucky University. As A-1's Content Marketing Manager, she works closely with industry experts to produce content that will best answer questions related to concrete repair and maintenance practices. Sarah loves living a life full of discovery and is excited every day to see what new things she can learn and share with those around her.
