Is It Cheaper to Level Concrete or Replace It?

Not only do you want a solution to your problematic concrete that will stand the test of time, look great, and function well on your property, but you also want one that won’t break the bank.

Not only do you want a solution to your problematic concrete that will stand the test of time, look great, and function well on your property, but you also want one that won’t break the bank.

Here at A-1 Concrete Leveling, we get it. That’s exactly why we developed our stone slurry concrete leveling process, which lifts existing settled concrete slabs instead of tearing them out for replacement. 

While we know that concrete leveling is a great option for many homeowners to repair their concrete, it’s important to consider all of your options before committing to a big and potentially expensive change to your home. 

Concrete replacement is often the rival repair method to concrete leveling, so learning all about both will keep you well-rounded when it comes time to make a final decision on your repair. 

In order to help you do just that, we’ve created this article which discusses whether it’s cheaper to level concrete or replace it, the average costs associated with each method, and what factors influence those costs.

Is it cheaper to replace concrete or level it?

We’ve found that, on average, concrete leveling can save you up to 70% off the cost of replacement. However, the amount of savings depends on many factors and can’t be accurately predicted until an experienced concrete leveling technician inspects the area.

Because concrete replacement takes quite a bit more time, material, and manpower, it makes sense that it will cost more. Most concrete leveling jobs can be completed within a day by two crewmembers, with significantly less material used and no demolition necessary.

Leveling vs. Replacement Average Costs

Both the cost of concrete leveling and concrete replacement vary depending on the region where you live. Places with a much higher cost of living can expect to pay more for both services than somewhere with a lower cost of living.

For example, the average cost range for A-1 to level a concrete driveway in Louisville, Kentucky, which has a relatively low cost of living, is between $900 and $4200. 

To replace a concrete driveway in Lousiville, Kentucky, you could be looking at average costs between $2,100 and $16,800, depending on whether the concrete is reinforced and the size of the driveway. However, we have found firsthand that the more reputable concrete companies in the area have a minimum of between at least $3,000 - $3,500.

The average costs for concrete leveling and replacement change depending on the project at hand. For an idea of how much each main type of concrete leveling project can cost in an area with a lower cost of living, check out the Louisville, Kentucky concrete leveling pricing guide.

What influences the cost of leveling and replacement?

The cost of both concrete replacement and concrete leveling range drastically depending on many factors.

Both Leveling and Replacement Factors

• Size of Project

The size of the project at hand influences how much manpower, material, and time the repair or replacement will take.

• Accessibility 

If your repair or replacement site is in an easy-to-reach location, it’ll be quicker and less expensive to haul materials and equipment in to do the job.

Concrete Leveling-specific Factors

• Number of Problem Points

Having a leveling repair with more areas in need of attention adds to its complexity, and how long the job will take overall.

• Physical Obstacles

Railings, porch or deck posts, curbing, A/C pads, tree roots, freshly-poured concrete, swimming pool coping, and fences are all obstacles that require extra attention to detail.

• Nearby Buildings, Porches, or Pools

When concrete slabs butt up against buildings, pools, or porches, leveling requires better-skilled technicians to make sure the repair goes smoothly.

Read more about the factors that influence the cost of concrete leveling.

Concrete Replacement-specific Factors

• Reinforced vs. Un-reinforced Concrete

Using rebar to reinforce the concrete is an extra step that adds material cost and extra time to the replacement process.

• Slab Thickness

A thicker slab (6-8 inches) is more expensive than a thinner slab (4-5 inches).

• Staining or Stamping the Surface

Decorative stamping or staining adds an extra step to the process, requiring more time, equipment, and material.

• Tree or Rock Removal

Concrete cannot be poured over tree roots or large rocks, so these will need to be removed prior to concrete replacement.

• Demolition

If you have existing concrete where the new concrete will be installed, the old will have to be destroyed and removed, which adds extra costs.

• Hauling Costs

There will be additional costs to haul away extra soil, rock, or other materials.

• Grading

The cost of grading the underlying soils and rocks will also add to the total price.

What’s next?

Now that you know a little more about the costs involved with both concrete leveling and concrete replacement, you’re one step closer to deciding which method is right for your individual concrete needs.

There are benefits to both concrete leveling and concrete replacement, but at the end of the day, it’s up to you to decide the right direction for your concrete.

A-1 Concrete Leveling has a network of locations all around the US that offer free onsite consultations. Click the link below to request a time to meet with a concrete leveling expert and receive a free estimate!

If you’re interested in learning more about concrete leveling pricing, we have a detailed guide discussing the cost of concrete leveling. You can also check out these related topics from our Concrete Academy: 

• Concrete Leveling vs. Concrete Replacement: Pros & Cons
• How Long Does Concrete Leveling Last?
• Common Problems That Concrete Leveling Can Solve