Concrete Leveling in the Winter

Winter can be a slower season for concrete leveling, primarily due to cold weather. While many people focus on the holidays or tax preparation, fewer think about outdoor concrete repairs. However, there are still situations, such as real estate transactions, renovations, or safety concerns, that necessitate addressing sinking concrete even during the colder months. Whether the work can be done largely depends on the type of repair and the conditions.

How Winter Weather Affects Concrete Leveling

The biggest factor in successful concrete leveling during winter is the temperature—both outside and in the ground. Frozen ground poses significant challenges for exterior concrete leveling because frozen moisture acts like adhesive, bonding to the bottom of the concrete slab. Attempting to lift concrete in such conditions could cause the slab to crack or break.

For interior concrete repairs, however, the conditions are much more manageable. Areas like garages, basements, and other indoor spaces are protected by frost walls, keeping the ground temperature stable and suitable for concrete leveling year-round.

Mudjacking vs. Polyurethane Concrete Leveling in Winter

When comparing mudjacking and polyurethane concrete leveling during the winter, significant differences emerge:

Mudjacking Challenges in Cold Weather

• Freezing Issues: Mudjacking relies on a mixture of sand and water, which can freeze inside pumps and hoses when temperatures drop below freezing, making the process impractical.
• Cleanup Challenges: Residual mud left around injection holes requires water for cleaning, which can create hazardous conditions in freezing temperatures.
• Limited to Outdoor Work: Due to its intrusive nature and risk of “blowout,” mudjacking is generally not used indoors, further restricting its viability during winter.

Polyurethane’s Advantages in Winter

• Temperature Control: Polyurethane leveling uses a two-part liquid polymer that is heated and delivered through temperature-controlled hoses, unaffected by outdoor temperatures.
• Low Intrusion: This method minimizes disruption and avoids risks like a blowout, making it ideal for indoor repairs.
• Versatility: Polyurethane leveling is effective for interior spaces like basement floors, garage floors, and warehouse floors, even during the coldest months.

Planning for Winter Concrete Leveling

Regardless of the method used, winter weather ultimately dictates whether exterior concrete leveling can be completed. Interior concrete repairs, however, remain a viable option throughout the season. It’s essential to plan concrete raising projects around seasonal changes, as conditions can vary significantly from day to day.

At '58 Foundations & Waterproofing, we specialize in polyurethane concrete leveling, ensuring year-round solutions for your interior concrete repair needs. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and keep your property safe and functional, no matter the season.