Cracks, water intrusion, crawl space moisture, settlement, etc.
We Treat Your Home Like Our Own
Acculevel was founded in 1996, and is well known in the industry for repairing foundations, basements, and crawl spaces. We raise and repair concrete structures for thousands of customers per year.
A concrete slab sinks as the soil underneath it shifts. Often, the cause for this is erosion. Rain comes down and saturates the ground, mixing the water into the soil. Then, when the water drains away, it takes part of the soil with it. This erosion can happen gradually as a natural process, or suddenly if it’s caused by a broken pipe or ruptured drain. If the ground under a slab is eroding quickly or seems loose, you should evaluate your home’s guttering and plumbing systems. It’s possible the downspouts or plumbing are draining under the slab and washing out the soil.
In other circumstances, the slab moves because of the ground itself. It’s possible that it wasn’t properly compacted before the concrete was poured. The extreme weather cycles in the Midwest contribute another factor. The ground floods in the spring, then dries out during a summer drought, which prompts erosion Then there’s the winter freeze-and-thaw pattern. The ground expands when it freezes, and contracts as it thaws. This fluctuation also contributes to shifts in the soil, which accelerates the settling process.
Concrete rarely settles evenly; usually one end will sink more significantly than the other. When this happens, the stress of the uneven support will sometimes crack the slab. At that point, you have high and low points on the concrete, and a crack or joint between slabs that will catch a pedestrian’s toe. These are trip hazards and a liability issue.
Sometimes, an uneven slab can also cause damage to your home. It may redirect rainwater towards your house, instead of away from it. This leads to water damage to your foundation, and possibly to leaks in your basement or crawl space. Over time this extra moisture can cause serious damage. Water permeating into your home can cause rotting in the structural wood flooring system (sill plate, floor joists, etc) and allow mold to flourish and grow.
Slab lifting is done by injection. Small holes are drilled through the concrete slab, and material is injected below it. This material fills the void underneath the concrete, and gradually the pressure of this filler being forced under the slab creates lift. The type of fill material varies; many companies use a concrete or limestone slurry referred to as “mud” and this process is generally called mudjacking. As the slurry hardens, it creates lift below the slab.
At Acculevel, we use a polyurethane foam. In our experience, slabjacking provides a better and more reliable repair; once the foam is injected, the chemical reaction promptly begins to expand, and it’s this foam that does the lifting. Since it’s more immediate than mudjacking, it allows for better control.
In this video, one of our knowledgeable experts explains why we choose to perform slabjacking:
Slabjacking uses specialized equipment, but it’s usually installed in a standard-sized service truck that can park in the driveway or street without issue. Slabjacking repair work rarely requires an Acculevel crew driving across your lawn, or disturbing your landscape; the slabjacking equipment has a 250 foot injection hose to maximize our reach to the repair section.
In fact, there is very little mess generated at a slabjacking job site. Generally, crews only need to clean up some dust generated from drilling through the concrete, and maybe trace amounts of foam from the injection site.
This is preferable to the messy process of replacing a slab. Concrete demolition often involves the use of a jack hammer, which is noisy and creates debris that adds to landfills. Re-pouring concrete requires building forms, a concrete truck, and the use of this equipment in close proximity to the work site. This results in a significant amount of trash and upheaval on your property. The new slab can also be visually jarring, as it won’t match the other existing sections in color or texture.
Slabjacking works with the existing concrete slab, so the costs are limited. They depend more on the size of the slab being lifted, and the amount of void under the slab. (The larger the gap, the more material is required.) The costs to replace concrete can be double the price of slabjacking. For more details on costs, please review our article on costs comparisons.
Recently worked on a project dealing with significant structural issues in David's property in the 43612 area. The crawl space showed signs of a sinking wall, and visible cracks were present on the corner of the exterior. Our team provided essential repairs to stabilize and secure the structure effectively. The project was approximately priced at $9,300.
We tackled a structural repair project at Nick's house in the 43611 area, focusing on leveling the kitchen corner. A previous attempt to fix the basement wasn't up to par, so we stepped in to correct it. The work enhances the home's stability and comes at an approximate cost of $12,000. Nick also mentioned interest in potential projects for other properties he owns.
During this project, we addressed structural issues in a crawl space where the beams were cracked and rotted. This was essential, as the homeowner is preparing to sell the house. We've implemented necessary supports to ensure structural integrity, with the overall cost of the repair being approximately $7,300.
We tackled a water intrusion issue for George in the 43623 area, focusing on securing the basement where water was coming through between the brick and insulation. This job, priced around $6,550, involved waterproofing measures to prevent future water ingress and protect the structural integrity of the home.
In zip code 43607, we tackled a structural support replacement for LC. The existing rusted support jack, installed since 1972, was replaced, securing long-term stability for the home. This essential repair was addressed for approximately $3,000.
We addressed a crucial structure repair for LC in the 43607 area. The project involved replacing a heavily rusted support jack that had been in place since 1972. Ensuring the foundation's stability was prioritized to maintain the home's structural integrity. The job was completed with an estimated cost of $3,000.
We recently tackled a crawlspace repair for Brittney, located in zip code 43605. The project involved addressing issues with the joists and installing jacks to stabilize the structure. Previously affected by water, the area now benefits from a newly installed sump pump, ensuring it remains dry and secure. This comprehensive repair also focused on ensuring the floors were leveled effectively. The job was valued at approximately $23,446.
We installed adjustable steel support columns to correct the unlevel floors in Robert's kitchen and dining room. The homeowner, living here for over 50 years, now enjoys a stable and secure foundation. Access was made through the dining room floor, with the project valued at around $9,800.
Addressed water intrusion issues in Duy's basement located in the 43607 area. We installed an effective waterproofing system to manage water flow and protect against future leaks, ensuring a dry and secure environment. The project is valued at approximately $7,100.
We recently tackled a waterproofing project for David in the 43623 area, addressing signs of water damage along the lower portion of the garage wall. With exposed drywall showing chalky deposits from past water intrusion, we implemented a solution to prevent future issues. This attached garage, part of a home with previous basement water issues, required thorough attention to maintain dryness and stability. The project's approximate cost is $13,400.
Completed a crawlspace encapsulation for Olalia in the 43606 area. We focused on sealing the space to prevent moisture and improve air quality, enhancing the home’s structural integrity. The project, priced at around $4,100, ensures a dry and secure environment.
Wrapped up a comprehensive foundation project involving structural reinforcement and installation of a window well egress. Noted deterioration in the south wall requiring immediate attention, with new support beams added to ensure stability. The task included excavation around the foundation to redirect water away from the home. Estimated project cost is approximately $13,700, taking care to stabilize Alexa's property in zip code 43617.
Lea's property is experiencing significant water intrusion in the crawl space, garage, and cellar. Water is entering the garage from the yard, and there's concern over the vapor barrier potentially hindering the French drains installed under the house. The external drainage is also insufficient, leading to a flooded driveway. Solutions are being sought to address these issues and ensure proper water management around the home, with an estimated project cost around $11,950.
Just completed the installation of a drainage channel in Cathie's garage in the 43615 area. This crucial job enhances water management, preventing potential water buildup and subsequent damage. The installation cost was approximately $2,800, providing significant value by ensuring a dry and safe environment.
Completed a project addressing moisture-induced damage to a sill plate in a home that's going on the market. We reinforced the structural integrity of the base by adding support to prevent further deterioration. The job is estimated at roughly $2,100 and ensures the home is in sellable condition.
Our team is currently working on reinforcing the cracked basement walls in David's home, located in the 43608 area. The project involves stabilizing cinderblock and brick structures, ensuring long-term durability and safety from further structural damage. This essential waterproofing and foundation repair are valued at approximately $8,300.
Rhonda's home in zip code 43614 underwent a substantial foundation repair project. Our crew worked diligently, installing sturdy piers to reinforce and stabilize the foundation. The exterior brickwork was also attended to, ensuring a strong and secure structure. This important job was valued at approximately $12,700.
Our team worked on addressing severe foundation issues in zip code 43611 by reinforcing the basement walls and implementing waterproofing solutions. The project involved excavation and installing protective systems to manage water seepage. Efflorescence and crumbling cinderblock were key concerns, and our thorough solution aims to improve structural integrity. This essential repair is valued at approximately $9,400.
Recently, our team completed a vital project for Andrew in the 43607 area, focusing on installing a new basement window to enhance ventilation and light. We carefully excavated the foundation to accommodate the window, ensuring proper drainage and structural support, with an approximate cost of $6,200. This installation not only improves the aesthetic appeal of the basement but also adds to the overall stability and functionality of the space.
Completed a job involving structural repair and window installation to enhance the foundation's stability and aesthetic. The team undertook excavation around the property for foundation access and successfully installed a new egress window, which enhances natural light in the basement and ensures compliance with safety standards. The approximate cost for this project was around $1,690. Located in zip code 43607, Andrew's property will enjoy improved security and functionality.
We recently completed a foundation repair and window installation project for Andrew in the 43607 area. Our team focused on stabilizing the structure by addressing critical window well installations and ensuring proper drainage around the newly fitted basement window. This project, estimated at around $6,200, enhances both the appearance and structural integrity of the property.
In the 43607 area, our team addressed significant foundational issues by working on a sidewalk area showing signs of cracking and instability. We enhanced the drainage system to manage water flow better, reducing potential damage. Part of the project involved ensuring the proper support of newly installed basement windows. With an approximate cost of $6,200, this intervention ensures both structural integrity and improved property aesthetics.
Jerald's crawlspace, located in zip code 43610, underwent a thorough waterproofing treatment paired with spray foam insulation installation. The area, measuring at least 18 inches in height, is now better sealed against moisture penetration. Though the foundation type remains uncertain, the improvements enhance energy efficiency and protect against dampness. This project, estimated at around $2,800, will provide long-term benefits in maintaining a dry and insulated home environment.
Darren's home required urgent attention due to a broken beam in the crawlspace, which had sunk about 3 inches in certain areas. The crawlspace was compact, necessitating the removal of some flooring for access. The repair involved installing new support structures to stabilize the area effectively, with the overall project valued around $8,800.
Our team recently conducted a sump pump and drainage system installation for Jason in the 43623 area. This project involved setting up a reliable sump pump unit to effectively manage water buildup and prevent potential flooding issues in the basement. As part of this job, valued at approximately $6,490, we ensured that the electrical connections and drainage pathways were securely established for optimal functionality.
