Category: Concrete repair

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Concrete Maintenance Guide: Enhancing Durability and Longevity
Ammar Concrete Problems, Concrete repair, , , , , , , , ,

Concrete Maintenance Guide: Enhancing Durability and Longevity

Introduction:

Proper maintenance of concrete surfaces is crucial for ensuring their durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. Whether it’s a driveway, patio, or walkway, maintaining concrete involves a series of steps that, when executed diligently, can significantly extend its lifespan.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the essential practices to maintain your concrete surfaces, particularly in regions like Ohio where harsh winters and environmental factors can impact their integrity.

1-Importance of Expansion Joint Maintenance:

Before delving into the maintenance procedures, it’s essential to understand the significance of expansion joints. These joints allow the concrete to expand and contract with temperature fluctuations, preventing cracks and other structural issues. Regularly inspect these joints for signs of deterioration.

2-Proper Expansion Joint Restoration:

When deterioration is detected, restoration is key. Follow these steps for effective expansion joint repair:

A. Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the joints to remove debris, old sealant, and any contaminants.

B. Installation of Backing Rod: Place a suitable backing rod or specialized sand at the bottom of the joint. This provides a firm foundation for the sealant.

C. Application of Polyurethane Sealant: Utilize a high-quality polyurethane sealant specifically designed for expansion joints. Apply the sealant smoothly and evenly, ensuring full coverage.

3. Winter Maintenance:

Ohio’s harsh winter conditions demand extra care for your concrete surfaces. Here’s a step-by-step winter maintenance routine:

A. Power Washing: Before the onset of winter, power wash the concrete to remove dirt, debris, and residual salts from previous seasons.

B. Drying Time: Allow the concrete to dry for a minimum of 24 hours to ensure complete moisture removal.

C. Application of Concrete Sealer: Apply two coats of a premium concrete sealer, allowing ample drying time between coats. The sealer acts as a protective barrier against water, snow, and salt penetration.

4. Benefits of Professional Services:

Enlisting the assistance of professionals can ensure meticulous maintenance and long-lasting results. Reputable contractors, such as Top Level Maintenance, offer affordable services that encompass the entire maintenance spectrum, from joint restoration to sealing and beyond.

Conclusion:

Maintaining your concrete surfaces is not just about aesthetics; it’s about preserving the integrity and longevity of your investments. By prioritizing expansion joint maintenance, implementing effective restoration practices, and adhering to a comprehensive winter maintenance routine, you can significantly enhance the performance and appearance of your concrete.

When seeking professional assistance, trusted providers like Top Level Maintenance offer cost-effective solutions that ensure your concrete surfaces remain in optimal condition for years to come.

Ammar Concrete repair, pool deck leveling, , , , ,

Pool Deck Leveling Services for a Safe and Beautiful Summer Retreat

Introduction:

A well-maintained pool deck provides the perfect setting for summer fun, relaxation, and outdoor gatherings. However, the continuous exposure to water, splashes, and rain can lead to settlement issues in the concrete slabs around pool decks. These settlements create uneven surfaces that not only pose trip hazards but also detract from the aesthetics of your outdoor oasis. To ensure a safe and inviting environment, it’s crucial to address these concerns promptly and effectively.

The Challenge of Settlements:

Pool deck settlements are a common problem that arises due to the washout of soil beneath concrete slabs. This is typically caused by water splashing, rain, and soil erosion. Over time, this compromised foundation can lead to uneven surfaces and potential safety hazards. Especially in areas where pool decks experience heavy foot traffic, like with kids playing and guests moving around, even the slightest unevenness can turn a fun day by the pool into an unfortunate accident waiting to happen.

The Solution: Foam Injection for Efficient Pool Deck Leveling:

Thankfully, advancements in technology have made pool deck leveling a quick and effective process. One such solution is foam injection, a method that has gained popularity for its efficiency and lasting results. This technique involves injecting a specialized polyurethane foam beneath the settled concrete slabs. As the foam expands and solidifies, it lifts the slabs to their original level and simultaneously stabilizes the underlying soil. This proactive approach not only restores the beauty of your pool deck but also prevents future settlements, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for all.

Benefits of Foam Injection:

  • Speed and Efficiency: Foam injection is a fast process that allows you to regain full use of your pool deck within hours, minimizing disruption to your summer plans.
  • Cost-Effective: Compared to traditional methods, foam injection offers a cost-effective solution that addresses both leveling and stabilization in one go.
  • Long-Lasting Results: The polyurethane foam used in injection is designed to be durable and resistant to erosion, ensuring a stable foundation for years to come.
  • Eco-Friendly: The foam is environmentally friendly, non-toxic, and won’t leach harmful chemicals into the surrounding soil or water.
  • Enhanced Safety: By eliminating trip hazards and uneven surfaces, foam injection significantly reduces the risk of accidents and injuries, particularly crucial in high-traffic pool areas.

Trust Top Level for Expert Pool Deck Leveling:

When it comes to pool deck leveling, Top Level is your trusted partner. With years of experience and a team of skilled professionals, we specialize in providing efficient and reliable foam injection services. Our goal is to ensure that your pool deck remains a safe, beautiful, and enjoyable space for your family and guests throughout the summer season.

Conclusion:

Don’t let uneven pool deck surfaces mar the beauty and safety of your summer retreat. Address settlement issues promptly and effectively with the innovative foam injection technique offered by Top Level. By investing in the longevity and safety of your pool deck, you’re making a choice that will contribute to countless memorable summers and worry-free outdoor enjoyment. Contact Top Level today and make your pool deck the highlight of your summer experience.

Mud Jacking: Lift Settled Concrete | Effective, Short-Lived Solution
Ammar Concrete repair

Mud Jacking: An Effective but Short-Lived Method for Lifting Settled Concrete

  1. The Basics of Mud Jacking
    • A traditional method for lifting settled concrete
    • Injection of liquid concrete through large holes
    • Requirement of heavy mixing equipment (concrete mixer)
  2. Shortcomings and Limitations
    • Vulnerability to dissolution over time due to water exposure
    • The weight-induced settlement, pushing weak soil further down
    • Lack of long-term guarantees from concrete leveling companies
  3. Cost Considerations
    • Relatively low cost compared to foam jacking
    • Additional labor requirements offsetting the cost advantage
Mud Jacking: Lift Settled Concrete | Effective, Short-Lived Solution
Mud Jacking: Lift Settled Concrete | Effective, Short-Lived Solution

Exploring the Limitations of Mud Jacking and Considering Alternatives

Settled concrete can be a frustrating and potentially hazardous issue for property owners. Whether it’s an uneven pathway or a cracked patio, the need to lift and level settled concrete is a common concern. Mud jacking has long been used as a solution for addressing this problem. However, it’s essential to understand the limitations and drawbacks associated with this method.

  1. The Basics of Mud Jacking is a traditional method that involves injecting liquid concrete into the voids beneath settled concrete slabs. This process requires drilling large holes in the concrete and utilizing heavy mixing equipment to prepare the concrete mixture.
  2. Shortcomings and Limitations: Despite its effectiveness in temporarily lifting settled concrete, concrete leveling has several inherent drawbacks. The basic liquid concrete used in the process tends to dissolve over time when exposed to water, leading to potential settling issues in the future. Moreover, the weight of the injected material can further compress weak soil, exacerbating the problem of settlement. It’s important to note that companies offering mud-jacking services cannot provide long-term guarantees due to these limitations.
  3. Cost Considerations: While mud jacking may seem cost-effective compared to alternatives such as foam jacking, there are additional factors to consider. Although the concrete used in mud jacking is relatively inexpensive, the process requires more labor and heavy equipment. This can offset the initial cost advantage and make it comparable to other methods like foam jacking.

Exploring Alternatives: Foam jacking is an alternative method gaining popularity for lifting settled concrete. Unlike mud jacking, foam jacking utilizes an expanding polyurethane foam injected beneath the concrete. The foam expands, fills voids, and lifts the concrete to its desired level. Foam jacking offers advantages such as:

  • Long-lasting results, as the foam does not dissolve with water
  • Lightweight material that minimizes additional settlement risks
  • Potential for extended warranties from reputable foam jacking companies

In conclusion, while mud jacking can be effective in temporarily addressing settled concrete, it has inherent limitations. The dissolution of the liquid concrete over time and the potential for further settlement make it a short-term solution. Homeowners should consider alternatives like foam jacking, which offers longer-lasting results and the potential for extended warranties. Consulting with professionals in the field will help determine the best approach for lifting and leveling settled concrete.

Smart Solution to Fix Settled Concrete
Ammar Concrete repair

Typical, Smart Solution to Fix Settled Concrete

Experience the perfect blend of innovation and efficiency with our typical, smart solution to fix settled concrete. As we stated in our previous articles about the causes of concrete
settlements and the voids build up underneath.

In this article, we will explain why foam injection is the best
the solution to bring concrete back to its original level.

Choose our smart solution to fix settled concrete.
Unfortunately, my customers will think immediately of replacing
settled concrete which is high in cost and the broken removed
concrete is not environment friendly and will obstruct access to
garage for days.
At almost ¼ of the cost foam injection can solve the problem in
1/10 of the time, for example ( a standard single-family house
driveway costs about 15000$ while the foam injection costs about
3000$.
at the same time, if we want to replace only the dropped slab it
will cost about 4500$ and it will look off because new concrete vs
old concrete.
When foam is injected, it spreads in 3 dimensions to fill all the
voids and the pushes. The concrete is up to its original level as per
the sketch below:

Smart Solution to Fix Settled Concrete

Foam vs Mud Jacking


Foam weights about 2 ½ lbs./ cab feet.
While mud (liquid concrete weighs about 150 lb./ cubic foot.
If we are solving the problem of the settled void the more weight
(mud) the more it will settle, (mud) will dissolve with time
and push the soil underneath down more.
The foam is very strong and very lightweight. Polyurethane foam provides
the compression strength of about 100 psi.

Clogged Gutters and Leaders
Ammar Concrete repair

Clogged Gutters and Leaders: The Hidden Culprit Behind Settled Concrete


Clogged gutters and leaders are often overlooked as potential causes for settled concrete. However, the accumulation of tree leaves, debris, and poor connections can lead to water overflow, puddles, and ultimately, damage to the concrete. In this article, we will explore how clogged gutters and leaders contribute to settled concrete and provide practical solutions to rectify the issue.

Clogged Gutters and Leaders

Section 1: The Impact of Clogged Gutters and Leaders


Clogged gutters and leaders hinder the smooth flow of water from the roof, causing it to overflow and accumulate near the porch, sidewalk, and driveway. Over time, the accumulated water seeps into the ground, washing away the supporting sand in the substrates. This erosion creates voids beneath the concrete, resulting in settlement and potential structural issues.

Section 2: Identifying the Problem


To determine whether clogged gutters and leaders are causing settled concrete, inspect your property for signs such as water puddles, erosion around concrete surfaces, or noticeable cracks. These indicators suggest that water is not draining properly due to obstruction or faulty connections.

Gutters and Leaders: Unveiling the Hidden Culprit

Section 3: Resolving the Issue of Clogged Gutters and Leaders


There are two primary methods to solve the problem of settled concrete caused by clogged gutters and leaders.

Subsection 3.1: DIY Approach
For those who are handy, purchasing gutter and leader parts from a hardware store can be a cost-effective solution. By installing the new components yourself, you can ensure proper water flow and prevent future settlement issues. However, it is essential to follow installation guidelines and safety precautions.

Subsection 3.2: Professional Assistance
If you are not comfortable with DIY work or prefer expert assistance, hiring a local gutter specialist is a wise choice. These professionals have the necessary knowledge and experience to replace clogged gutters and leaders efficiently. They can assess the situation, recommend suitable replacements, and ensure the proper installation of new components.


Once the clogged gutters and leaders have been addressed, it is crucial to restore the settled concrete. Top Level Concrete, a reputable concrete repair company, offers an effective solution through foam injection.

Section 4: Restoring Concrete with Top Level Concrete

Subsection 4.1: The Foam Injection Process
After providing an estimate and gaining approval, the experts at Top Level Concrete use a specialized technique to raise the settled concrete back to its original level. This is done by injecting foam through small 3/8″ holes strategically placed in the affected areas. The expanding foam lifts the concrete, eliminating the voids created by water erosion.

Subsection 4.2: Finishing Touches
Once the concrete has been restored, Top Level Concrete ensures a seamless finish. They patch the injection holes and seal any joints as required, leaving behind a visually appealing and structurally sound surface.

Conclusion:


Clogged gutters and leaders are often underestimated as potential causes for settled concrete. By recognizing their impact and taking prompt action, property owners can prevent further damage and maintain the integrity of their concrete surfaces. Whether through a DIY approach or with the help of professionals like Top Level Concrete, resolving the issue of settled concrete ensures a safe and aesthetically pleasing environment for years to come.

Ammar Concrete repair

Concrete Sidewalk Repair & Leveling: Cost and Advantages

Sidewalk repair is a common issue in many cities, including Columbus, Ohio. We use sidewalks daily for walking, exercising, and taking our pets for a stroll. However, it’s also common to see raised concrete walkway slabs that create a dangerous tripping hazard. Thankfully, there are efficient solutions that concrete leveling companies can provide, and finding reliable ones with good local reviews is key.

Sidewalk Leveling: A Quick Fix

One of the most effective solutions for sidewalk leveling is raising the adjacent concrete slab so that both slabs are level, eliminating the tripping hazard. This process is known as foam leveling, or foam jacking, and it involves injecting a specialized foam under the settled or sunken slab to raise it back to its original position. This process is quick, easy, and typically costs around one-third of the cost of replacing the entire sidewalk.

Advantages of Foam Leveling

Aside from the cost-effectiveness, there are other advantages to choosing foam leveling over traditional sidewalk replacement. Firstly, new concrete looks different from old concrete, which can create an unsightly appearance. By contrast, foam leveling blends in seamlessly with the existing concrete, making it an ideal choice for homeowners who want to maintain a consistent look throughout their property.

Additionally, concrete leveling companies that specialize in foam jacking are often better equipped to handle smaller jobs than companies that focus solely on concrete replacement. Foam jacking is a quick process that can be completed in as little as a few hours, while traditional concrete replacement can take days or even weeks. With foam jacking, homeowners can have their sidewalk repaired and back in use in no time at all.

Concrete Sidewalk Repair & Leveling
Concrete Sidewalk

Choosing a Reliable Concrete Leveling Company

When it comes to choosing a reliable concrete leveling company, there are a few key things to look for. Firstly, it’s important to check for local reviews and ratings to ensure that the company has a solid reputation. Additionally, it’s important to choose a company that has experience with foam leveling specifically, as this process requires specialized equipment and knowledge.

Conclusion

Overall, sidewalk repair and leveling is an important issue that affects many homeowners in Columbus and other cities. While traditional concrete replacement may seem like the only solution, foam leveling is a quick, cost-effective, and reliable option that offers many advantages over traditional methods. By choosing a reliable concrete leveling company that specializes in foam jacking, homeowners can have their sidewalks repaired quickly and easily, ensuring a safe and beautiful outdoor space for themselves and their community.

Ammar Concrete repair, Settlement

Concrete Settlement : What causes concrete to settle

Concrete slabs, driveways, walkways usually are poured on a subbase consisting of ground and sand, even if it is compacted well, throughout time, water seeps from surroundings, green area, or though aged, broken sealants in expansion joints.

Seeping water from joints and surroundings green and will by time, wash the sand in the subbase area and eventually the ground will shift down and create voids and hallow areas under the heavy concrete slab. 

Concrete in general is strong under pressure and not tension when we have voids under a flat concrete slab and dynamic movement (car driving on top of it). Almost like a long, thick piece of glass laying flat and applying presence in a certain area the glass will break right away. 

Typical, smart solution to fix settled concrete 

As we stated in our previous articles about the causes of concrete settlement and the voids build up underneath 

 In the article, we will explain why foam injection is the best solution to bring concrete back to its original solution. 

Unfortunately, my costumers will think immediately of replacing settled concrete which is high in cost and the broken removed concrete is not environment friendly and will obstruct access to the garage for days. 

At almost ¼ pf the cost foam injection can solve the problem in 1/10 of the time. When the foam is injected, it spreads in 3 dimensions to fill all the voids and the pushes. The concrete is up to its original states as per sketch one. 

Mudjacking vs Polyurethane Foam in concrete settlement repair

Foam weights about 2 ½ lbs./ cab feet.

While mud (liquid concrete weighs about 150 lb./ cubic foot. 

If we are solving the problem of settled soil the more weight (mud) the more it will settle, beside (mud) will dissolve with time and push the soil underneath down more. 

The foam is very strong and very lightweight. Polyurethane provides a compression strength of about 100 psi, so Polyurethane Foam Concrete Lifting is the best choice.

Why concrete settling?

Concrete slabs, driveways, and walkways usually are poured on a sub-base consisting of gravels and sands, even if it is compacted well, throughout time, water seeps from surrounding green areas or through aged broken sealants in expansion joints.

concrete settlement repair

Seeping water from joints and surroundings green areas will, over time, wash the sand in the sub-base area, and eventually the gravel will shift down and create voids and hollow areas under the heavy concrete slab. 

Concrete in general is strong under pressure and not tension

when we have voids under a flat concrete slab and dynamic movement (car driving on top of it). Almost like a long, thick piece of glass laying flat and applying pressure in a certain area the glass will break right away. 

 

concrete settlement
Ammar Concrete repair

The Importance of Addressing Unleveled Concrete Surfaces When Buying or Selling a House

When it comes to buying or selling a house, there are many factors to consider. One of the most overlooked aspects of a property is the condition of its concrete surfaces. These include driveways, walkways, steps, and porches. Many homeowners are unaware of the potential hazards that can arise from sunken or sloped concrete surfaces. In this article, we will discuss the importance of addressing uneven concrete surfaces and how Top level can help you with quick and efficient solutions.

Uneven Concrete Surfaces

Uneven Concrete Surfaces

If you are in the market to buy a house, it’s crucial to pay attention to the condition of the concrete surfaces. Settlements, sunken porches, and sloped steps can be a sign of underlying foundation issues. Before making an offer, it’s recommended to have a professional inspection and point out any problems to the inspector. If you decide to purchase the property, you should ask the seller to fix any issues before you move in. If they decide not to, but are willing to deduct the cost of repairs from the purchase price, it’s a fair compromise.

At Top level, we specialize in foam injection, which is a quick and efficient solution to fix unleveled concrete surfaces. This process involves injecting a polyurethane foam underneath the affected area, which expands and hardens, effectively leveling the surface. This technique is eco-friendly, affordable, and can be done within a matter of hours, making it an ideal solution for homeowners who want to address these issues before moving in.

When it comes to selling your house, it’s essential to address any concrete surface issues. Ignored or neglected areas can lead to trips and falls, which can result in liabilities and potential cancellations of purchase contracts. As a seller, you should be proactive in identifying and solving any issues before putting your property on the market. At Top level, we can issue fast estimates and execute the repairs immediately, ensuring that your property is safe and ready to sell.

Addressing Unleveled Concrete Surfaces

In conclusion, the condition of concrete surfaces is a critical aspect to consider when buying or selling a house. By addressing these issues, you can avoid potential hazards and liabilities, ensuring a smooth and safe transition for both the buyer and seller. At Top level, we are committed to providing quick, efficient, and affordable solutions to all your concrete surface problems. Contact us today for a free estimate and see how we can help you.

Ammar Concrete repair

Trip hazard repair: Let us fix your trip hazard before someone falls and get hurt

-Every time a guest is visiting, we have to worry and come out to wave and warn them to be careful!!!!!
It is a common behavior by almost all households who have a trip hazard situation outside their homes. (Unleveled concrete walkway or sunken concrete step).

-It could be a tree root or a loose gutter and leader that flooded the soil and caused it to seep.

Trip hazard repair

-During the course of our Top level business, we have heard many sad testimonies and stories of loved ones falling and getting injured badly.

-For every household, fixing trip hazards, uneven concrete surfaced, or sunken step is a very important safety responsibility.
Thanks to technology it is easy now.

-At Top Level, we have got a fast, efficient, affordable solution for the above problems.
-We drill very small holes, and inject fiam which, as it interacts underneath, pushes the settled surface and makes it even with the rest.
It is environmentally friendly and customers can use it right away.

-The ADA ( American Disability Act) did identify the trip hazard issues.
⁃ A difference of more than 1/4” between two surfaces is a considered-trip hazard and should be addressed.
⁃ Outside steps should be 7 1/2”
⁃ Anything exceeding 8” could be a trip hazard.
⁃ Avoiding or postponing the trip hazard repair is a risky unsafe wait, because some incidents may accrue at any time we come and leave our houses which may cause devastating and unbearable injuries, especially for older ones.
⁃ As the owner of Top Level company, and with my architectural background and inspection experience, I do appreciate greatly the safety codes we have to follow in building our residential and commercial buildings.
⁃ These codes are very strict and detailed when it comes to steps height and unleveled surfaces,
⁃ Unfortunately, during the pandemic, and the hot home sales market. People sold their houses (As is ) without even a careful inspection which many times shed the light on the trip hazard situations.
⁃ We care a lot about the inside of our house and yet ignore the outside safety walkways and driveways that lead to the inside.
⁃ Personally, every time I finish, and besides the business aspect, I feel very content and relaxed that at least this house because a safe place to live in, and no more trip hazards situations which may cause injury and pain.
⁃ In my faith, removing or trip hazard repair situation is considered a good deed.


Thanks
Ammar krayem
Owner/ manager
Top level

mudjacking vs polylevel
Aladdin Concrete repair

Mudjacking VS Polyurethane Foam: What is the difference?

Comparing mud jacking to polyurethane leveling is like comparing the steam locomotive trains to the new ones we have today. Both trains will get you to your destination, but the present train is innovative, faster and more convenient. This comparison also applies to the two methods of lifting the concrete. Both mud jacking and Polyurethane Foam will do the job of lifting the slabs, but the mud jacking method is outdated, takes more time to dry and is not permanent.

Mudjacking vs Polyurethane Foam

To put this into perspective, we have to understand how each method works and what are the advantages and disadvantages of each method used.

MUD JACKING

Mudjacking works by filling the voids under the concrete slabs with a mixture of hard fill including mud, sand, cement and crushed limestone. To do so, contractors will have to drill big holes in the concrete to fill mass amounts of substances to lift the slab to its original place. Doing so might not fix the issue completely since the materials used in the process are the same materials that caused the issue in the same place, they’re not waterproof. 

mudjacking

Polyurethane Foam

Polyurethane injection utilizes dense, durable, environmentally-safe polyurethane foam. It’s waterproof which means that you won’t have to worry about it being shrunk every other year like the mud method. This will last you a lifetime! Also, the holes drilled in the process are the size of a penny. We will make sure that your house looks like new again. 

Read more about : Why Polyurethane Foam Concrete Lifting Is Your Best Choice?

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