Concrete has become a fixture on properties across the country with things like patios, steps, and walkways formed from the material. It's touted for its longevity and durability, but that doesn't mean it's invincible. One of the biggest problems with concrete is actually caused by the soil around it. If your concrete isn't level anymore, you don't have to live with it. Here are some things that you should know about concrete leveling.

Why Might Concrete Need Leveling? 

Whether you've noticed a square on your walkway that's settled lower than the ones around it or your patio seems like it's leaning because one corner is sinking, any time your concrete structures aren't level, you'll want to reach out to a local concrete leveling contractor. 

Most cases of unlevel concrete happen because the soil foundation beneath it has eroded or shifted due to water or other hazards. While the right preparations before pouring the concrete can reduce this risk, it can't prevent it entirely. That's why it's important to realize that signs like this indicate a need for leveling to fix the problem.

How Can Concrete Be Leveled?

Concrete leveling happens in many different ways depending on the underlying cause of the problem. In most cases, concrete leveling is done with a filler material that's injected through small holes in the concrete pad. That filler material settles underneath the concrete, stabilizing the soil foundation and lifting the sunken areas to level out the concrete surface.

Sometimes, leveling is done with surface patching instead. In other cases, excess concrete material may be ground away to create a level surface. The preferred approach will vary based on the cause of the problem, so talk with a concrete leveling contractor about which solution is right for your situation.

When Can Concrete Not Be Leveled?

There are some situations where concrete leveling isn't recommended. If the concrete in question is cracked, broken, or showing significant signs of weather damage, you may find that your leveling contractor recommends replacement instead. Leveling concrete that's already damaged could result in the concrete itself crumbling and falling apart. Replace it with new concrete on a freshly leveled foundation for the best results.

These are a few of the things that everyone should understand about concrete leveling. You don't have to live with uneven concrete causing drainage issues, trip hazards, and other challenges. Call a concrete leveling contractor today for more information and to have your concrete structure assessed.