What Is The Cost of Leveling Concrete in St. Louis?

Concrete leveling is a process that involves lifting and leveling sunken or uneven concrete slabs to restore them to their original position. This service is incredibly useful for sidewalks, driveways, patios, and other concrete surfaces that have shifted over time.

Not only does concrete leveling prevent accidents caused by uneven surfaces, but it’s also a cost-effective alternative to full concrete replacement. It’s a service that homeowners in St. Louis should consider when looking to restore the structural integrity of their concrete without breaking the bank.

At KW Concrete Leveling in St. Louis, we are a premier choice for all concrete leveling solutions and are committed to providing clarity in this industry regarding price, techniques, equipment, and more.

Concrete Leveling Price per Square Foot

The cost of concrete leveling is typically calculated based on the size of the area that needs to be leveled. In St. Louis, homeowners can expect prices to range from $3 to $7 per square foot, depending on the method used and the complexity of the project. Larger areas, difficult-to-access locations, or slabs that require more material may lead to higher costs.

The Three Options: Stone Slurry Grout Leveling, Foam Concrete Leveling, & Mudjacking

• Stone Slurry Grout Leveling: This method involves injecting a mixture of sand, cement, and water beneath the concrete slab to lift it. It’s a durable option but can be heavier than other methods.
• Polyurethane Foam Leveling: We use this technique at KW Concrete Leveling. It uses lightweight, eco-friendly polyurethane foam, which expands to lift the concrete. It’s precise and often faster than other methods.
• Mudjacking: Mudjacking, or slab jacking, uses a slurry of mud and cement to raise the concrete. While cost-effective, it’s less durable than foam leveling due to the weight of the material.
  

What Impacts the Cost of Concrete Leveling?

Several key factors influence the overall cost of concrete leveling, and understanding these will help you get a clearer idea of what to expect. These factors include:

• The Size of the Area That Needs Leveling: The most significant determinant of cost is the size of the concrete area that requires leveling. Larger areas, such as driveways, patios, or large walkways, will naturally cost more because they require more material and labor. Conversely, smaller areas like a single section of a sidewalk or small steps may be less expensive but could still incur minimum service charges. Most companies charge per square foot, so the larger the area, the higher the total cost.
• The Method Used: The type of leveling method chosen also plays a critical role in determining the cost. For example:
• Foam Concrete Leveling tends to be more expensive upfront, but it's a lightweight, exact method that delivers durable results, which can be worth the investment for long-term value. Additionally, we use this method at KW Concrete Leveling because of the long-lasting impact, environmentally friendly solution, and the strength to prevent issues for a longer duration.
• Mudjacking is generally the least expensive option, but because it’s less durable and requires larger volumes of material, the cost savings may not be as significant if repeated services are needed in the future.
• The Condition of the Existing Concrete: If the concrete slab has additional structural damage, such as cracks or large voids beneath the surface, this may increase the complexity and cost of the job. More preparation or repair work might be needed before the leveling process can begin. Addressing these issues could lead to higher material and labor costs.
• The Location and Accessibility of the Slab: Accessibility can greatly influence the price of concrete leveling. If the slab is in a difficult-to-reach area, such as a backyard with narrow access or a spot surrounded by landscaping, it may require special equipment or additional labor, which increases the cost. On the other hand, easily accessible areas, like driveways or front sidewalks, are usually less complicated to work on and may cost less.

Why Do Some Companies Have a Minimum Price?

Many concrete leveling companies have a minimum service charge, regardless of the project size. This is because the setup and labor costs are the same for small and large projects, making it necessary to cover overhead expenses. Typically, the minimum price for concrete leveling services ranges from $750 to $1,000.

How Long Does Concrete Leveling Last?

The longevity of concrete leveling depends largely on the method used, with some options offering longer-lasting results than others. Foam concrete leveling, in particular, is known for its exceptional durability and can easily last 15 years or more when properly maintained.

• Foam Concrete Leveling: This method uses lightweight polyurethane foam that expands beneath the concrete slab, lifting it to its original position. Due to the foam’s resistance to moisture and shifting, it provides a long-term solution that can last over 15 years. Unlike heavier materials used in other methods, foam stays stable even in areas with frequent weather changes or soil movement. KW Concrete Leveling uses this foam technology, making it an ideal choice for homeowners in St. Louis who want a lasting fix.
• Stone Slurry Grout Leveling: This method typically lasts between 5 to 10 years, depending on the soil conditions and how well water is managed around the slab. While effective, it is heavier than foam and may not hold up as long in areas with unstable soil or water drainage issues.
• Mudjacking: Mudjacking can be a cost-effective option but generally has a shorter lifespan. It tends to last about 5 years and may need to be repeated sooner in areas with poor soil stability or heavy water exposure. The heavier slurry used in this method can also settle over time, making it less durable than foam.

“At KW Concrete Leveling, we back all our concrete leveling jobs with a 5-year warranty, ensuring that homeowners in St. Louis can trust the quality and longevity of our work. Our commitment to long-lasting results, especially with foam concrete leveling, means you can have peace of mind knowing that your concrete will stay level for years to come.”

However, the biggest enemy of concrete longevity is water.

Water can seep beneath the slab, causing soil erosion and further shifting over time.

Proper maintenance, such as ensuring adequate drainage, sealing cracks, and addressing water flow issues around your concrete surfaces, can significantly extend the lifespan of your leveled concrete.

While foam leveling is highly resistant to water, taking proactive steps to keep moisture at bay will help protect your investment and potentially make it last a lifetime.

Concrete Leveling vs. Replacement – Which Is More Cost-Effective?

In most cases, concrete leveling is much more cost-effective than full concrete replacement. Leveling costs typically range from $500 to $2,000 ($4-$6 per square foot), whereas replacing the same slab could cost $4,000 or more ($10-$14 per square foot). However, replacement may be necessary if the concrete is severely cracked or damaged beyond repair, if that’s the case we will let you know before any project is scheduled.

How to Choose the Right Concrete Leveling Company in St. Louis

Choosing the right concrete leveling company in St. Louis is critical to ensuring the job is done right the first time. Here are key factors to consider:

• Warranty and Peace of Mind: Always check if the company provides a warranty for their services. At KW Concrete Leveling, we offer a 5-year warranty on all concrete leveling jobs. 
• Modern Techniques and Eco-Friendly Materials: It's important to select a company that uses modern, environmentally friendly techniques. KW Concrete Leveling uses polyurethane foam leveling, which is not only highly effective but also eco-friendly. This foam is lightweight, durable, and resistant to water, providing a long-lasting solution that minimizes environmental impact.
• Capabilities to Handle Any Size Job: Whether you have a small residential job or a large commercial project, KW Concrete Leveling has the equipment and team to tackle jobs of any size. Our state-of-the-art tools and experienced crew ensure that we can level your concrete quickly and efficiently, no matter the scale of the project.

By choosing KW Concrete Leveling, you get a well-equipped company that uses the latest methods, and guarantees their work, ensuring your concrete stays level and stable for years to come.