Concrete Leveling vs. Replacement: Which is Right for You?

Choosing between concrete leveling and full replacement depends on the condition of the slab, your budget, and the results you want to achieve. In some situations, leveling offers a fast, affordable fix. In others, replacement is the only way to restore long-term strength and appearance. This guide breaks down the key differences to help you make an informed decision.

Assessing the Condition of Your Concrete

The first step in deciding between leveling and replacement is evaluating the condition of your existing concrete. Here’s what to look for:

When Leveling Might Be a Good Option

• The slab has sunk but has minimal cracks
• The underlying soil is the main issue, not the concrete itself
• The concrete was originally poured with reinforcement (e.g., steel rebar)
• You want a cost-effective, faster solution

When Replacement Is Necessary

• The slab has extensive cracking (50+ cracks indicate serious issues)
• There is no rebar or structural reinforcement in the concrete
• The cracks are so severe that leveling won’t improve the appearance
• You want a completely new, smooth surface

Concrete Leveling: What You Need to Know

How It Works

Concrete leveling, also called slabjacking or mudjacking, involves injecting a specialized material under the slab to raise it back to its original position. This is ideal when the concrete is still in good condition structurally but has settled due to soil erosion or compaction.

Pros of Concrete Leveling

1. Lower Cost: Typically costs about one-third of what full replacement would cost.
2. Less Downtime: Most leveling projects are completed in a few hours, and you can use the surface almost immediately.
3. Minimal Disruption: No need for demolition or hauling away old concrete.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Existing cracks will remain: Leveling lifts the concrete but does not erase cracks.
• Hidden cracks may appear: Sometimes, cracks that were underneath the surface become visible after leveling.
• Results depend on concrete quality: If the concrete wasn’t poured correctly in the first place, leveling may only provide a temporary fix.

When Concrete Replacement is the Better Option

How It Works

Concrete replacement involves removing the old slab completely and pouring new concrete. This is often necessary when the existing concrete is beyond repair.

Pros of Concrete Replacement

1. Fresh, Clean Look: If aesthetics matter, replacement eliminates cracks and discoloration.
2. Better Structural Integrity: With proper reinforcement, a new slab can last much longer.
3. Addresses Underlying Issues: If the original slab failed due to poor preparation, replacement allows for a fresh start with better materials and techniques.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Higher Cost: Expect to pay about three times more than leveling.
• More Time-Consuming: A new slab needs several days to cure before it can be used.
• Messier Process: Demolishing and hauling away old concrete is disruptive and labor-intensive.

Real-Life Examples: Leveling vs. Replacement

Example 1: A Driveway with 67 Cracks

A homeowner calls us for an estimate on leveling their driveway. After inspecting it, we found 67 different cracks, revealing that the concrete was poured without rebar reinforcement. If we lift this slab, the cracks will remain and possibly worsen in appearance. In this case, replacement is the better choice.

Example 2: A Sunken Driveway with No Cracks

Another homeowner’s driveway has sunk by 3 inches but has no visible cracks. This tells us the concrete was poured correctly with rebar, but the soil underneath settled. Here, leveling is the best option—it restores the driveway quickly and affordably.

Example 3: Hidden Cracks Exposed

Sometimes, homeowners don’t see cracks in their concrete until after it has been leveled. That’s because the cracks were already there—on the underside of the slab—but leveling made them visible. We always make sure customers understand this possibility before proceeding with the job.

Making the Right Choice for Your Home

When deciding between concrete leveling and replacement, consider the following:

• If your concrete is mostly intact and has sunk due to soil issues → Leveling is best.
• If your concrete is extensively cracked, has no reinforcement, and looks worn out → Replacement is the better long-term solution.
• If aesthetics are a major concern, and you want a surface free from cracks → Go with replacement.
• If you need a quick, budget-friendly fix for uneven slabs → Choose leveling.

At Foundation 1, we prioritize honesty and transparency in our estimates. We’ll tell you upfront whether leveling will give you the results you want—or if replacement is the smarter investment.

In Summary

Both concrete leveling and replacement have their advantages, but the right choice depends on your concrete’s condition, your budget, and your expectations. Leveling is fast, affordable, and effective for minor settling issues, while replacement is necessary for slabs with extensive cracking or no structural reinforcement.

Not sure which option is right for you? Contact us today for a professional evaluation. Our team at Foundation 1 is here to help you restore your concrete with the best solution for your needs.