Colorado Concrete Repair is a professional concrete leveling company. We arrive at properties that have uneven concrete and utilize a variety of tools and techniques to make sure that you have a perfectly level, smooth concrete surface every time.
One approach to concrete leveling is to use self-leveling concrete. By definition, self-leveling concrete is a type of liquid concrete that goes on smooth and, using gravity, dries level to create a far more level space. Self-leveling concrete can have many advantages as an approach to concrete maintenance, though it should be noted that it is not without its risks and needs.
Benefits and Risks of Self-Leveling Concrete
First, it is important to understand that concrete may be durable, but it is also remarkably fragile. For example, self-leveling concrete is typically mixed with water at the time of service. But even the instructions on the bag are not entirely accurate. It can be affected by airborne humidity, heat, weather, location, thickness, and more. Typically, it is better to have a professional use any type of leveling agent, whether it is self-leveler or hand leveling.
That said, there are some benefits to using self leveling concrete. For example:
- Installation Efficiency
One of the primary advantages of self-leveling concrete is its installation efficiency. The material flows easily, filling gaps and low spots to create a uniform surface with minimal labor. This quick application reduces downtime, making it ideal for businesses that need to remain operational during renovations. The rapid curing time also allows for faster project completion, minimizing disruptions.
However, it’s essential to note that proper surface preparation is critical to make sure you get the results you want. Any contaminants or unevenness in the substrate can compromise the final result, or possibly create complications that may be even more difficult to fix.
- Durability and Longevity
Self-leveling concrete floors – when installed correctly – are durable and will last for years. The dense, strong surface can withstand heavy foot traffic, machinery, and equipment, providing a longer lifespan compared to traditional concrete floors. This reduces the frequency of repairs and replacements, offering a cost-effective long-term solution.
Still, while durable, self-leveling concrete is not impervious to damage. In areas with extremely high impact or chemical exposure, additional protective coatings may be necessary to maintain the floor’s integrity. In addition, if the flooring was not installed using the exact correct consistency of concrete or did not have an opportunity to dry correctly, the final result can be brittle and may not be adequate for your needs.
- Smooth and Even Surface
The ability to create a perfectly smooth and even surface is a significant benefit of self-leveling concrete. This feature is particularly important in commercial settings where an uneven floor can pose safety hazards and impact functionality. Self-leveling concrete is useful in that it naturally levels perfectly flat. It is a great way to eliminate trip hazards, for example, or as an underlayment for other types of flooring.
- Cost-Effectiveness
On a pound for pound level, self-leveling concrete may cost a bit more than traditional concrete. But in terms of labor costs and time lost, self-leveling concrete typically fixes concrete challenges that would otherwise require a more thorough removal and replenishment of the concrete – depending on what the issues are, of course.
Self-Leveling Concrete – Inspections and Quotes
It is not recommended to do self-leveling concrete on your own, unless you have significant experience with concrete. But this is *especially* true in commercial properties, as improperly installed concrete can open you up to a host of different challenges, form lawsuits over uneven floors to concrete that breaks easily under heavy foot traffic.
At Colorado Concrete Repair, our expertise in concrete allows us to determine if self-leveling concrete, or another concrete repair approach, may be beneficial. Then, we use our expertise to apply is, that you’re always getting a perfectly smooth surface each and every time. There are many ways to apply concrete. At Colorado Concrete Repair, we’ll make sure you have the right option at a competitive price, with a finished concrete that is built to last. Contact us today to get started.
