We’ve been working with Lansing property owners for years, and one question comes up more than any other: “Should I level my concrete or replace it completely?” It’s a decision that affects your budget, your property’s appearance, and how long the fix will last. Let us walk you through what we’ve learned from hundreds of projects across Lansing.
Understanding the Problem
Concrete settling happens to almost every property in Lansing eventually. Our Michigan soil, freeze-thaw cycles, and heavy rain create the perfect storm for sunken slabs. We see it most often in driveways, sidewalks, and patios throughout neighborhoods near Michigan State University and Old Town.
When concrete sinks, it creates trip hazards and drainage problems. Water pools where it shouldn’t, leading to bigger issues down the road. We’ve helped homeowners in REO Town and Eastside Lansing address these concerns before they become costly repairs.
What Is Concrete Leveling?
Concrete leveling lifts your existing slab back to its original position. We drill small holes and inject material underneath to raise the concrete. It’s faster and more affordable than replacement in most cases.
The process typically takes just a few hours. We use polyurethane foam or a cement-based slurry to fill voids beneath the slab. Your concrete is ready to use within 24 hours in most situations.
This method works incredibly well when the concrete itself is still in good shape. We’ve leveled driveways on Jolly Road, sidewalks near Potter Park Zoo, and commercial spaces along Michigan Avenue with excellent results.
When Leveling Makes Sense
We recommend concrete leveling when your slab has minimal cracking. If the concrete is structurally sound but just settled unevenly, leveling saves you thousands of dollars. Most Lansing homeowners choose this option for their walkways and patio areas.
Leveling is perfect when you’re dealing with soil settlement issues. Properties near the Grand River or areas with clay-heavy soil often experience this problem. The concrete itself isn’t damaged—it just needs support from underneath.
Time is another huge advantage. If you need a quick fix before selling your home or hosting an event, leveling gets the job done fast. We’ve completed emergency projects for property owners in Delta Township and East Lansing within 48 hours.
Understanding Concrete Replacement
Complete concrete replacement means removing the old slab and pouring fresh concrete. We excavate the damaged area, prepare the base properly, and install new concrete from scratch. This option costs more upfront but provides a brand-new surface.
Replacement typically takes several days to complete. You’ll need to stay off the new concrete for at least a week while it cures. We schedule replacement projects carefully to minimize disruption to your daily routine.
This approach gives you a clean slate. You can choose decorative options like stamped concrete or change the layout entirely. We’ve transformed dated concrete into beautiful outdoor spaces for clients throughout Lansing.
When Replacement Is Necessary
Severely cracked concrete needs replacement, not leveling. When we see spiderweb cracking, large breaks, or pieces falling apart, we’re honest about the situation. Your concrete has reached the end of its lifespan.
If your concrete foundation has major structural issues, replacement is the only safe option. We never compromise on safety, especially for load-bearing structures. Foundation problems require professional assessment and complete reconstruction.
Sometimes clients want to upgrade their concrete’s appearance or functionality. Maybe you want to widen your driveway or add a decorative finish. Replacement lets you customize everything from thickness to color to texture.
Cost Comparison for Lansing Properties
Concrete leveling typically costs 50-75% less than full replacement. For an average Lansing driveway, leveling might run $800-$1,500 while replacement could cost $3,000-$6,000. The savings add up quickly, especially for larger areas.
Replacement costs include demolition, disposal, materials, and labor. You’re essentially paying for a complete do-over. According to the American Concrete Institute, proper installation requires specific techniques that take time and expertise.
We provide transparent estimates for both options. Our team assesses your specific situation and gives you accurate pricing. Check out our FAQs page for more information about what factors influence cost.
Longevity and Performance
Properly executed concrete leveling lasts 5-10 years in most cases. The longevity depends on addressing the underlying soil issues. We often recommend drainage improvements alongside leveling for maximum durability.
New concrete replacement should last 20-30 years or more. You’re getting a fresh start with modern materials and techniques. We use quality concrete mixes designed for Michigan’s harsh weather conditions.
Both options require proper maintenance. Sealing your concrete every few years protects it from moisture damage and freeze-thaw cycles. We offer concrete resurfacing services to keep your concrete looking great for years.
Environmental Considerations
Leveling is the more environmentally friendly choice. You’re keeping existing concrete out of landfills and using fewer new materials. The equipment we use has a smaller carbon footprint than full-scale demolition and replacement.
Concrete production generates significant CO2 emissions. By choosing to level instead of replace, you’re making a sustainable decision. The Environmental Protection Agency recognizes concrete recycling and reuse as important environmental practices.
We care about our Lansing community and our planet. Whenever leveling is a viable option, we encourage clients to consider the environmental impact. It’s good for your wallet and good for the Earth.
Making the Right Decision
Walk around your property and honestly assess the damage. Look for wide cracks, crumbling edges, and areas where concrete pieces are missing. Take photos and measurements to share with us during your consultation.
Consider your long-term plans. If you’re selling soon, leveling provides excellent ROI. If you’re planning to stay in your home for decades, replacement might make more sense. We help Lansing property owners weigh these factors every day.
Get a professional assessment before deciding. We offer free inspections throughout our service areas in Greater Lansing. Our experienced team can spot issues you might miss and recommend the best solution for your specific situation.
Why Choose Professional Help
DIY concrete leveling rarely works out well. The equipment is expensive to rent, and improper injection can create bigger problems. We’ve fixed several botched DIY attempts from well-meaning Lansing homeowners who wished they’d called us first.
Professional contractors carry insurance and warranties. When you work with our team, you’re protected if anything goes wrong. We stand behind our work and make things right.
We know Lansing’s unique challenges. From the clay soil near Waverly Road to the sandy areas near Lake Lansing, we understand local conditions. Our experience with commercial concrete and residential projects gives us insight you can’t find anywhere else.
Get Started Today
Don’t let damaged concrete become a bigger problem. Whether you need leveling or replacement, we’re here to help you make the best choice for your property and budget. We’ve helped hundreds of Lansing families restore their concrete safely and affordably.
Contact us for a free assessment of your concrete. We’ll visit your property, evaluate the damage, and provide honest recommendations. You’ll get a detailed estimate with no pressure to commit.
Your concrete deserves expert care from a team that understands Lansing properties inside and out. Let us show you why we’re the trusted choice for concrete solutions throughout Mid-Michigan. We’re ready to answer your questions and get your project started right.