Welcome to our latest blog post where we tackle an all-too-common issue homeowners face: an unlevel concrete porch. It’s not just an eyesore; it’s a safety hazard lurking right at your doorstep, waiting for an unsuspecting victim.
The good news? An uneven porch does not necessarily signal the need for a complete rebuild. Before you envision the hassle and high costs of starting from scratch, we have a solution that’s not only efficient but also effective: polyjacking.
In this post, we’ll guide you through the innovative process of lifting and leveling your concrete porch, turning that trip hazard into a safe, welcoming entrance to your home. Stick around as we explore why this method is a game-changer for homeowners looking to repair their unlevel concrete porches without breaking the bank or their backs.
What Causes a Concrete Porch to Become Unlevel?
There are a number of factors that can cause a concrete porch to become unlevel. These include the following:
- Soil erosion – One of the most common causes is soil erosion, which occurs when water, wind, or other natural forces wear away the soil beneath the porch, causing it to sink or tilt.
- Poor installation – Another common cause is poor installation, as some contractors may not have properly compacted the soil underneath the porch before pouring the concrete. This can cause the porch to shift or become unlevel over time due to the unstable foundation.
- Water damage – Water damage can also weaken the concrete and cause the porch to become unlevel. When water seeps into the concrete, it can cause the steel reinforcement bars inside the slab to corrode, which can lead to cracks and weakened support. This can make the porch susceptible to sinking or tilting.
- Heavy objects – Another factor that can contribute to unlevel concrete porches is the weight of heavy objects placed on them. Over time, the pressure from heavy objects such as large planters and furniture can cause the concrete to shift and become unlevel.
How Are Unlevel Concrete Porches Repaired?
Thankfully, there are methods for repairing unlevel concrete porches that can restore their functionality and aesthetic appeal.
One common method is known as polyjacking. This involves injecting a two-part polyurethane foam under the unlevel areas to lift and level the concrete. The process requires drilling dime-sized holes into the concrete and inserting a hose to pump the foam under the surface. The foam immediately begins to expand and as it does, it lifts the porch.
If the porch has stair step-shaped cracks, piers may be necessary to stabilize it. Piers are typically made of steel and are inserted into the ground to provide additional support to the porch. This is a more involved process, but it is sometimes necessary to prevent further damage and ensure the safety of those using the porch.
Another method is to remove and replace the uneven concrete. This involves breaking up the porch and pouring new concrete. While this is a more extensive and expensive option, it may be necessary if the porch is severely damaged.
There’s also self-leveling concrete. This involves pouring a thin layer of concrete over the unlevel areas and allowing it to self-level. Once the concrete has hardened, it creates a smooth and level surface. However, keep in mind that self-leveling concrete is not going to be a lasting solution if the porch has become uneven because there’s something going on in the soil underneath the porch, such as erosion or settlement. In this case, all you’ll be doing is adding more weight to the concrete which could end up making the problem worse.
In addition to repairing the porch, it’s important to address the underlying cause of the issue. As noted above an unlevel porch may be the result of soil erosion or settling, which can be caused by a variety of factors such as poor drainage or a shifting foundation. Addressing these issues can help prevent future damage to the porch and ensure its long-term stability.
It’s important to note that repairing an unlevel concrete porch can be a complex process and should be completed by a professional. Attempting to DIY this type of repair (self-leveling concrete, for example) can lead to further damage and may not effectively solve the problem. A professional contractor can assess the extent of the damage and recommend the best course of action for repair.
Why Leveling a Concrete Porch Is Often Better Than Building a New One
Leveling a porch can be a much quicker process than building a new one. Building a new concrete porch requires a lot of time and effort, including pouring a new foundation, constructing the frame and pouring the concrete. In contrast, leveling a porch via polyjacking can usually be done in just a few hours by a professional contractor.
Leveling a porch is also less costly than building a new one. Building a new porch requires the purchase of new materials and a significant amount of labor, which can quickly add up.
Finally, leveling a porch can help to preserve the character and charm of a home. Many older homes have unique and historic porches that cannot be easily replicated with modern materials. By leveling the existing porch, homeowners can preserve the original character of their home while also ensuring that it is safe and functional.
Tips on How to Prevent Your Concrete Porch from Becoming Unlevel
Here are some tips on how to prevent your concrete porch from becoming unlevel.
- Proper Installation – Proper installation of your concrete porch is key to its longevity. Your concrete porch should be installed on a firm and level base that has been properly compacted. If this isn’t done, it can cause the porch to sink, shift, or crack over time.
- Regular Maintenance – Regular maintenance is essential to prevent your concrete porch from becoming unlevel. You should inspect your porch regularly for cracks, chips, and other damage. Any damage should be repaired immediately to prevent even further damage.
- Proper Drainage – Proper drainage is essential to prevent water from pooling on your porch. If water is allowed to stand on your porch, it can cause the concrete to weaken and become unlevel. You should also ensure that the soil under your porch has proper drainage.
- Avoid Heavy Loads – Heavy loads such as furniture and potted plants can cause your concrete porch to become unlevel.
- Seal Your Porch – Sealing your porch can help to prevent water from penetrating the surface of the concrete and causing it to weaken and become unlevel. You should seal your porch annually to keep it in good condition.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your concrete porch remains level and in good condition for many years to come.
If you’re concerned about your home’s concrete porch, contact us today to schedule an evaluation. We serve areas in Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri.
