Are you tired of tripping over uneven concrete? Sunken concrete can be a frustrating issue for homeowners, but there’s a solution. Introducing mudjacking, one of the most popular types of concrete leveling, that lifts and stabilizes settled concrete slabs. Let’s dive into the pros and cons to see if it’s the right fix for your damaged concrete.
The humble origins of mudjacking are rooted in a desire for a cheaper alternative to replacement. However, with a few successes and setbacks comes the need to acknowledge both the strengths and weaknesses of this method.
What is Mudjacking?
Concrete is the second-most used substance on Earth, only surpassed by water. But even the toughest concrete can sink and settle over time, which is where mudjacking come into play.
The mudjacking procedure involves pumping a slurry mixture (usually containing soil, water, and cement) beneath a sunken concrete slab. This mixture fills any voids under the slab and hydraulically lifts it back to its original position.
Pros of Mudjacking
When considering mudjacking as a concrete leveling repair method, you should start with the benefits. Mudjacking has quite a few advantages, especially compared to concrete replacement.
1. Cost-Effective Solution
Mudjacking is usually much cheaper than replacing a concrete slab entirely, as concrete removal and re-pouring can get very pricey very fast. With mudjacking, there’s no need to demolish the existing slab, which saves big on labor and material costs.
2. Quick Repair Process
Another advantage of mudjacking is that it’s fast. The mudjacking process is much quicker than replacing a slab, with most projects being completed in just a few hours compared to days for a new pour.
3. Minimal Disruption
Mudjacking is the epitome of smooth overhauls, utilizing only small holes and a reliable pumping rig to ensure hassle-free adjustments. Unlike concrete replacement, which often requires massive machinery and loud demolitions, mudjacking lets busy areas like driveways and pool decks get back on track quickly and quietly.
Cons of Mudjacking
Faced with the pros and cons of mudjacking, it’s essential to weigh the advantages against the potential drawbacks. That’s because, while it has its benefits, mudjacking is not a one-size-fits-all solution.
1. Limited Effectiveness
Mudjacking works best on concrete slabs that are still in relatively good condition. If a slab is heavy, severely cracked or sunken, crumbling, or deteriorating, mudjacking may not be able to salvage it. The injected slurry may not be able to lift the slab back to its original position in these cases.
2. Potential for Further Damage
When drilling holes and pumping slurry, there’s a high risk of causing further damage to an already weakened slab. The high-pressure pumping could crack or break the concrete, adding to the problem. Working with experienced contractors will help you avoid this risk.
3. Longer Drying Time
While the mudjacking process itself is quick, the drying time can be significant as the slurry needs time to fully cure and harden. This can take up to 24 hours, during which the slab shouldn’t be used.
This drying time is longer than some other repair methods, like polyurethane foam injection, which can cure in just 15 minutes.
6 Signs You Need Mudjacking
So how do you know if your concrete could benefit from mudjacking? Here are some common signs:
- Uneven concrete surfaces.
- Cracks in the concrete, especially those with grass growing out of them.
- Sunken slabs that are lower than adjacent surfaces.
- Concrete that rocks or moves underfoot.
- Gaps forming between the slab and foundation.
- Pooling water that doesn’t drain properly.
If you notice any of these issues, it’s worth considering the pros and cons of mudjacking to stabilize your concrete. Catching concrete problems early can prevent further damage down the line.
FAQs
Get Professional Solutions for Your Concrete Surfaces
Mudjacking has been a go-to solution for many homeowners facing sunken or uneven concrete for years. It’s a cost-effective and relatively quick fix that can restore the functionality and appearance of your concrete surfaces. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of mudjacking before making a decision.
While mudjacking can be a great option in certain situations, it may not be the best choice for every concrete repair project. Factors like the extent of the damage, the underlying cause of the settlement, and the long-term durability of the repair should all be considered.
At Crossroads Foundation Repair, we have teams of dedicated experts with years of extensive experience fixing up homes with long-lasting solutions. No matter what problems you’re facing with your concrete surfaces, we will get them leveled and fixed up– without breaking the bank.
Call us today for a FREE inspection.
