Frequently Asked Questions

What makes concrete sink?

Poor or improper compaction of the base before concrete was poured: The weight of the slab will further compact the base after curing, and sometimes settlement can happen quickly.

Soil types: Where heavy clay soils exist concrete is prone to heaving and sinking, expanding when wet and contracting when dry.

Tree Roots: A large tree can consume as much as 400 litres of water a day, drying out the ground around it, and causing nearby concrete to settle. If your driveway or sidewalk is close to a large tree, this may be causing your concrete to settle.

Climate: Freezing and thawing causes slabs to expand when frost is in the ground. When the ground thaws, the concrete will settle again, but many times not to where it was originally. This results in trip spots between shifting slabs. On the opposite end of the climate spectrum, heat and drought can cause expansive clay soils to shrink, causing the slabs to settle. When the clay soils receive rain, and expand once again, the concrete slabs shift and become uneven.

Erosion: Damaged water and sewer lines, improperly placed downspouts and excessive rain can all lead to a washout of base materials under concrete causing the slabs to settle. Remember: polyurethane foam will not erode like traditional mudjacking.

Machine/Traffic Vibrations: Concrete slabs may shift or settle on highways or in industrial settings where there is frequent heavy vibrations or loads being transported. The vibrations from machinery and passing traffic can lead to the base compacting and slabs settling or moving.

How Big Are The Holes?

Top Level drills a nearly invisible 5/8” hole (size of a dime) while traditional mudjacking companies use an injection hole that is 1 5/8” – 2”. Not only are our holes far less visible, but more importantly, due to their size, help maintain the structural integrity of the concrete.

How Long Does The Work Take To Be Done?
Obviously that depends on the size of the job. However, the average residential job can be completed in 2 – 3 hours.
How Long Will The Area That Is Raised Be Out Of Service?
In almost all cases most areas can be used immediately after we finish.
What Concrete Can Be Raised?
Any concrete lifting is dependent on the weather. Therefore, in our Winnipeg climate, outside work is generally done from May 1st through mid-November. Generally speaking if there is frost in the ground we cannot raise concrete. However interior slabs in heated buildings can still be raised. Do not hesitate to contact us and we will be happy to let you know if it can be done.
What Do You Do With The Holes When You Are Done?
The holes are patched with a Portland cement / concrete mix.
What Are The Terms Of Payment?
Payment is required within 7 days from the date of work / invoice unless otherwise stated.
Do I Need To Send A Deposit?
No. Payment is not required until after the work is completed. However, payment is required within our payment terms of seven (7) days.
Is There A Warranty?
Yes! If the concrete slab(s) sink(s) more than ½” within one year of performing the work, Top Level will come out and rework the settled slabs. Full warranty details will be printed on the estimating proposal. Also if you are selling your house the warranty is 100% transferable.
Do I Need To Be Home For The Estimate?
It is only necessary to be present if the area in question is an interior location, pets are present or in a locked structure or yard. Also if there are extenuating circumstances and detailed explanation regarding your project is required.
How Do I Accept A Proposal?
If you have reviewed your estimate and decide to have the work done, simply sign the estimating proposal electronically via the estimate option. If you do not have email the estimate must be signed before work will commence.
What Will Happen To The Existing Cracks In My Slab(S)?

,Unfortunately, the cracks will still exist. However, more often than not they will “close” when the concrete is manipulated back to its original place. In addition, Top Level does not fill or patch concrete cracks.

Are You Licensed And Insured?
Yes, Top Level is licensed and insured.
How Do I Schedule My Work?
Once we receive your signed acceptance, we will contact you to schedule your project. If your project is time sensitive, we usually have some flexibility to our schedule so that we could accommodate your schedule.
Do I Need To Be Present When The Work Is Being Done?
Generally not, as long as the work being done is outside. However, if work is being done on an interior location like a garage floor, in a locked yard, or pet considerations need to be made; then an adult over the age of eighteen is required to be present.