Understanding Mudjacking: The Smart Solution for Concrete Lifting
Mudjacking or slab jacking is a method for lifting and leveling sunken concrete. Over time, sidewalks, driveways, patios and even commercial floors can settle or sink due to soil erosion, poor compaction or water infiltration. Mudjacking addresses this by injecting a slurry mixture beneath the concrete to fill voids and lift the slab back into place.
With over 50 years of experience, HMI provides advanced concrete lifting equipment and support to help contractors and business owners master this process.
The Benefits of Choosing Mudjacking for Concrete Repairs
Concrete leveling mudjacking is a smart choice because it reduces downtime. A few small holes are drilled into the slab, and the material is pumped in with a mudjacking pump. Once the voids are filled, the concrete is raised, stabilized and ready for use in a fraction of the time compared to replacement.
Mudjacking is also environmentally friendly. By restoring existing concrete, you avoid the environmental impact of concrete demolition and disposal.
- Sidewalks
- Curbs
- Roads
- Stairs
- Driveways
- Pool Deck
- Patios
- Floors
- Loading docks
- Roads
- Bridge approaches
- Off or on ramps
Concrete Replacement Is Expensive
It is simple math. Concrete contractors must make up to three trips to a location to replace a simple slab of concrete with removal, framing, pouring, removal of framing material and cutting. Add to this the ever growing problem of environmental constraints of concrete disposal: The replacement of a simple 10’x10’ piece of driveway, walkway or pool deck can cost up to $1,000.
Be environmentally friendly! Repair your concrete instead of replacing it!
What Can Be Done With Settled Concrete?
When concrete settles, property owners have several options:
- Grinding: While this is an inexpensive fix, grinding can compromise the strength of the slab and expose unsightly aggregate. Plus, if the concrete continues to settle, grinding won’t solve the underlying problem.
- Replacement: This is the most expensive and time-consuming solution, often requiring days of work and producing mismatched slabs.
- Raising and stabilizing: Both mudjacking and polyurethane concrete lifting use injection methods to fill voids and raise the concrete. Although HMI focuses on advanced polyurethane foam systems, it’s important to understand that mudjacking remains a well-known option in the industry.
With HMI’s cutting-edge tools like the EliteONE Air Purge Gun, contractors can improve efficiency and even revisit injection points when needed — something traditional mudjacking systems can’t match as easily.
Sign up for Upcoming Discovery and Training Seminars
If you’re curious about getting into the business of concrete leveling mudjacking or learning about modern alternatives, HMI offers in-depth training sessions. These classes cover everything from operating equipment and estimating jobs to marketing your services. Register today and start learning.
FAQs
How Long Does Concrete Mudjacking Last?
When deciding whether mudjacking is worth it, understand that it can last several years, depending on soil conditions and drainage. However, if underlying soil issues are not addressed, the concrete may eventually settle again.
Is Mudjacking Better Than Foam Lifting?
Foam lifting offers several advantages over traditional mudjacking, including lighter weight materials, faster cure times and greater precision.
What Are the Problems With Mudjacking?
Mudjacking material is heavier and can sometimes contribute to future settling if the soil beneath is unstable. It also requires larger drilled holes compared to foam lifting, which can be more invasive.
