Learn how concrete leveling can help schools and universities eliminate trip hazards without the cost or disruption of full replacement.
Student safety is always top of mind for school administrators and facility managers, but one often-overlooked hazard is uneven concrete sidewalks, steps, and entryways.
These settled slabs pose a major trip risk, but the good news is there’s a fast, cost-effective fix: concrete leveling.
TL;DR
Uneven concrete on school campuses is a hidden safety hazard, but concrete leveling offers a fast, affordable solution that avoids the downsides of grinding and full replacement, keeping students safe and budgets intact.
In This Article
Why Concrete Sinks on Campuses
Most often, the concrete sinks due to what’s happening underneath the slab. On school campuses, especially those with older infrastructure, common causes of settlement include:
- Tree roots pushing slabs upward
- Soil erosion due to poor drainage or heavy rainfall
- Voids formed under sidewalks from improper backfill or water runoff
- Natural settling over time, especially around newer buildings or additions
Without intervention, these problems can grow from nuisance to lawsuit risk.
Flaws in Traditional Fixes
- Tear-out and Replace: Labor-intensive, costly, and often unnecessary unless the slab is crumbling. Plus, the new concrete doesn’t match the existing slabs.
- Grinding: A surface-only fix that leaves visible scars and doesn’t address the real issue: erosion and voids below the slab. It can also cause the slab to crumble and crack faster.
How Concrete Leveling Works
Concrete leveling restores slabs by injecting material underneath to lift and stabilize:
- Stone Slurry Grout Leveling: The most durable and controlled method, which uses a limestone-water mix to raise slabs precisely and evenly.
- Foam Leveling (Polyjacking): Uses expanding polyurethane foam for lightweight lifts and tight spaces.
- Mudjacking: Pumps a mixture of soil and water beneath the slab with larger drill holes.
Example: In Nashville, a school district lifted 12 uneven sidewalk panels in under 4 hours. Students walked safely on them the next morning.
Related Resource: What Is Concrete Leveling? [Cost, Pros & Cons, FAQ, and More]
Cost and Timeline Benefits
Concrete leveling can cost up to 70% less than full replacement.
- Most jobs are done in a few hours
- Areas are walkable same day
- No need for demolition or excavation
It’s ideal for:
- Summer maintenance windows
- Weekend repairs
- Fixes during the school year
Annual Maintenance Strategy
Schools that treat concrete like HVAC, an asset needing regular care, see better safety outcomes and lower long-term costs.
- Conduct annual inspections
- Tackle small issues early
- Bundle repairs during off-peak seasons
This approach stretches the life of your concrete and your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does concrete leveling last?
With proper maintenance and drainage, concrete leveling can last for the life of the concrete slab itself. Caulking joints post-leveling can help extend its lifespan.
Is concrete leveling safe for schools with heavy foot traffic?
Yes. Concrete lifting methods like stone slurry grout leveling create durable, stable surfaces safe for daily student use.
Can you level concrete during the school year?
Absolutely. Most jobs are fast enough to complete without disrupting classes or events.
What’s the best time of year to level concrete?
Spring, summer, and fall offer ideal conditions, but winter leveling is also possible in many areas nationwide.
Concrete Leveling: A Smart, Sustainable Fix
Whether you're managing a high school, college campus, or elementary school, concrete leveling is a fast, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective way to improve safety and preserve infrastructure.
Ready to Level Your Campus?
A-1 Concrete Leveling offers professional concrete leveling services with free onsite estimates, multi-year warranties, and annual service contracts tailored for schools and universities.
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Sarah Etler
Sarah Etler joined A-1 Concrete Leveling after receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Northern Kentucky University. As A-1's Content Marketing Manager, she works closely with industry experts to produce content that will best answer questions related to concrete repair and maintenance practices. Sarah loves living a life full of discovery and is excited every day to see what new things she can learn and share with those around her.
