Why Concrete Lifting is Better than Mudjacking? | Mudjacking vs Foam Jacking

Spring weather is right around the corner, making it the perfect time to tackle those concrete problems you've been putting off. As snow melts and the ground begins to thaw, the damaged and uneven concrete becomes more noticeable around your home. If you're considering repairing sinking slabs, you've likely heard of mudjacking, but is it really the best solution? In this blog, we'll explain why you shouldn't use mudjacking contractors and why polyurethane foam is the better long-term option. 

What is Mudjacking?

Many concrete repair services, both large and small, utilize a solution called mudjacking. Mudjacking is a traditional repair method used to lift concrete slabs that have settled over time. The process involves pumping a mortar-based slurry beneath the slab. This mixture typically consists of water, soil, sand, and Portland cement. Once injected, the slurry fills the voids beneath the concrete and builds pressure to raise the slab back towards its original position. After the materials set, it hardens into a solid base intended to provide support. While mudjacking has been used for decades, it's important to understand its limitations before choosing it for your concrete repair project. 

Limitations of Mudjacking

Although mudjacking is often promoted as a quick and budget-friendly repair option, lower upfront costs do not mean long-term results. Mudjacking should not be relied on as a stand-alone solution for sinking sidewalk repair or concrete lifting. Due to the material used, it is heavy and less precise during installation, and can be difficult to achieve a controlled, even lift. This lack of precision may lead to uneven results or additional adjustments. Another important consideration is what caused the issue in the first place. If the underlying soil remains unstable, adding a heavy slurry beneath the slab may not prevent future movement. Over time, the area can settle again, requiring additional repairs. While mudjacking may appear to be the more affordable option initially, repeat repairs and ongoing settling can make it more costly in the long run. 

A Better Alternative: Polyurthane Foam Lifting

What sets American Waterworks apart from other concrete leveling companies is our use of advanced, award-winning repair solutions. PolyLevel is a high-density polyurethane foam designed to lift and stabilize sinking concrete. During the installation process, the foam is carefully injected beneath the slab, where it expands to fill voids created by soil erosion and settlement. As it expands, it gently raises the concrete back to its proper position while providing long-term stabilization. Because the material expands in a controlled manner, it allows for a precise, accurate lift and delivers immediate results. 

Why PolyLevel is the Better Choice

When compared to traditional mudjacking, PolyLevel injection offers several advantages. One of the most notable is the weight differences. PolyLevel is a high-strength foam that weighs significantly less, approximately 4 pounds per cubic foot, while traditional mudjacking materials can weigh around 100-120 pounds per cubic foot. Because it is lightweight, PolyLevel adds minimal stress to already weakened soils, reducing the risk of future settling while still delivering powerful lifting capability. As the PolyLevel is injected, it compacts the loose soil, increases the ground's load-bearing capacity, and prevents further sinking.

In addition to its strength-to-weight advantage, PolyLevel is waterproof and resistant to erosion. It will not wash away over time, making it a durable solution for areas exposed to moisture. The material is also stable and inert, meaning it does not react with surrounding soil or water. 

Another major benefit is its fast curing time. The foam cures within 15 minutes of injection, allowing the repaired surface to be used on the same day. The installation process is also minimally invasive, requiring smaller drill holes than mudjacking and causing less disruption to the surrounding area. While mudjacking requires larger holes, creating a larger mess, and disturbs its surroundings. Finally, PolyLevel is a cost-effective solution because it is long-lasting, unlike mudjacking and slab replacement. 

Together, these benefits make PolyLevel a reliable, long-term solution for lifting and stabilizing concrete and the best concrete leveling method in Minnesota. 

When it comes to lifting and stabilizing concrete, choosing the right repair method makes all the difference. While mudjacking may offer a short-term fix, PolyLevel provides a lightweight, precise, and long-lasting solution for sunken slabs. If you're ready to start your sidewalk leveling project or sunken driveway repair, schedule a FREE estimate with one of our professionally trained Design Specialists today!