Cement is a versatile material that can be used to create a hard surface in almost any location. Pouring a cement slab gives you access to a smooth and solid surface on which you can work and park your vehicles. Unfortunately, some cement slabs can begin to settle over time. This settling process can cause the concrete to sag or crack, and should be addressed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage.

Slab jacking can be a simple and effective tool when it comes to repairing a sagging concrete surface. Here are three tips that you should keep in mind when slab jacking your cement in the future.

1. Make sure you assess the situation before you begin repairs.

It's important that you work with a contractor who has experience performing slab jacking methods. An experienced contractor will be able to evaluate the condition of your concrete to determine how extensive the damage is.

The contractor will also be able to determine why the slab started to settle in the first place, and whether the settling process is complete. This information is vital when it comes to proper slab jacking, so be sure that you take the time to assess the situation before you begin making repairs.

2. Make sure your contractor is using the right materials.

There are many different materials that can be used to complete the slab jacking process. Some contractors will use topsoil or drilling mud, but these materials can leave your concrete surfaces vulnerable to continued sagging in the future.

Be sure to check that your contractor is using a material that contains Portland cement. This type of cement helps to lend strength to the slab jacking material, and it also helps to prevent the material from eroding over time.

3. Make sure the dust from drill holes is utilized properly.

It's important that you ask your contractor if he or she will be utilizing the dust from the drill holes during the repair process. Slab jacking requires that a series of holes be drilled into the surface of your concrete.

The repair mixture is then pumped through these holes to the underside of your concrete slab, helping to raise the sagging slab effectively. Utilizing the dust from the drill holes in the repair mixture will help to ensure that the holes match the color of the rest of your slab, preventing a polka-dot appearance on the surface of your concrete.

Being prepared for the slab jacking process will help you make repairs to your cement properly. Be sure to assess the situation, ensure your contractor is using the right repair mixture, and ask that the dust from drill holes be added to the repair mixture to increase the aesthetic and function of your cement slab following repairs.