FAQs

Mudjacking, also known as slab jacking or concrete leveling, is a cost-effective method for lifting and stabilizing sinking concrete slabs. This process involves drilling small holes into the affected concrete and injecting a slurry—a mixture of water, soil, sand, and cement—underneath. The pressure from the slurry raises the slab back to its original level position. Mudjacking is a preferred repair technique for sidewalks, driveways, patios, and similar structures due to its efficiency and lower cost compared to complete slab replacement.

The mudjacking process starts with thoroughly assessing the sunken area to determine the best points for injection. After drilling small holes in the concrete, a hydraulic pump is used to inject the slurry under the slab. As the slurry flows into voids beneath the concrete, it exerts upward pressure, raising the slab to the desired level. Once the leveling is achieved, the holes are filled with cement, leaving the surface stable and ready for use. The entire process is typically completed within a few hours.

Yes, mudjacking can be performed in the winter, but the conditions must be right. The ground should not be frozen, and the temperature should ideally be above freezing during and for several days after the procedure to ensure proper curing of the materials used. It’s often best to consult a professional to assess the viability of winter mudjacking for your specific situation.

The durability of mudjacking depends largely on the conditions that caused the initial sinking. If the underlying soil remains stable and free from significant water intrusion or erosion, mudjacked concrete can last for many years—often as long as the original slab. Regular maintenance, such as sealing cracks and managing drainage, can considerably extend the life of a mudjacked slab.

Mudjacking corrects the level of sunken concrete slabs by hydraulically lifting them from below. This process addresses problems like trip hazards, improper drainage, and unsightly uneven surfaces by restoring the concrete to its original position. It is a practical solution for extending the life of existing concrete without needing more extensive and expensive repair methods.

Mudjacking typically costs about one-third to one-half as much as replacing the entire concrete slab. If concrete replacement costs approximately $10,000, mudjacking might only cost between $3,500 and $5,000. This substantial cost saving makes mudjacking an attractive option for residential and commercial property owners looking to address uneven concrete without the higher expense of complete replacement.

While mudjacking is generally a safe and effective method for leveling concrete, if the process is not done correctly, there are some risks, such as further slab cracking. Selecting an experienced and reputable mudjacking contractor can mitigate these risks significantly. The contractor should conduct a thorough evaluation to ensure mudjacking is suitable for your situation.

Mudjacking, when performed correctly, is safe for the foundation. The pressures applied are controlled and designed only to lift the slab, not impact the foundation. However, it is very important to work with skilled professionals who understand the appropriate pressure levels and injection sites to prevent any potential damage.

Mudjacking can be a long-lasting repair method if the underlying causes of the slab sinking are addressed. Ensuring proper drainage and soil stabilization can help prevent future settling. While not permanent, mudjacking can extend the life of concrete slabs for many years, providing a durable, cost-effective solution.

You can typically walk on the concrete within a few hours of completion. This quick turnaround makes mudjacking a convenient repair option requiring minimal daily activity disruption.

Although you can walk on the surface shortly after the mudjacking is completed, waiting at least 24 to 48 hours is recommended before allowing vehicle traffic. This waiting period allows the injected material to fully harden and settle, ensuring the durability and continued stability of the slab.

You can walk on the surface shortly after the mudjacking is completed. For vehicle traffic, it is advised to wait 24 to 48 hours. This ensures that the injected material has hardened sufficiently, maintaining the slab’s stability and strength.

Mudjacking involves drilling and slurry injection, so some mess is inevitable. However, the process is significantly less disruptive and messy than complete concrete replacement. Cleanup efforts are part of the service, ensuring your property is neat.

Mudjacking offers several advantages over complete replacement: it’s less expensive (typically costing one-third to one-half as much), less invasive, and the area can be used again much more quickly. Additionally, it’s an environmentally friendly option, as it uses fewer resources and reduces waste.

Mudjacking is suitable for leveling sunken concrete slabs such as driveways, sidewalks, patios, and steps. It is ideal for areas where the underlying soil has compacted or washed away, but the concrete remains in good condition.

Mudjacking is unsuitable when the concrete is severely cracked or crumbling, which can cause further damage. It’s also not recommended for floating slabs or structures where lifting could affect their structural integrity.

Most concrete slabs can be raised or leveled using mudjacking, provided they are intact. Exceptions include slabs that are heavily cracked, slabs with deep structural issues, or those that are too thin to withstand the pressure of the slurry injection.

The cost of mudjacking varies depending on the size and complexity of the job but generally ranges from $500 to $1,500 for typical residential projects. This is significantly cheaper than concrete replacement, making mudjacking a cost-effective option for many homeowners and businesses.

By resolving uneven concrete and potential trip hazards, mudjacking can enhance your property’s aesthetic appeal and functionality, which may contribute to an increase in property value, especially if it resolves significant safety issues.

Mudjacking typically does not damage the yard or sprinkler systems as the machinery is designed to minimize impact on the surrounding area. Care is always taken to ensure minimal disruption to your property.

The material that fills the holes after mudjacking will initially be more noticeable but generally blends over time. Matching the exact color and texture of the existing concrete can be challenging, but it will become less conspicuous as it ages.

Our proprietary slurry mixture is optimized for durability and stability. It contains a balanced mix of soil, cement, and water adjusted to suit the specific needs of your project. This custom approach ensures the repaired slab’s best possible lift and longevity.

Most mudjacking projects can be completed within a few hours, depending on the scope and complexity of the work. Larger or more complex areas might take longer, but typically, mudjacking is a day’s job.

Yes, we provide a warranty on all mudjacking services. This warranty typically covers the work for 1-2 years, depending on the condition of the original concrete and the complexity of the project. This warranty assures you of the quality and durability of our work.

During mudjacking, expect the arrival of technicians who will first assess the site and drill holes in the designated areas of the concrete. They will inject the slurry under the slab to raise it to the correct level. After the slab is adjusted, the holes will be patched, and the site will be cleaned up.

The number of holes drilled in the concrete will depend on the size and shape of the corrected area. Typically, holes are spaced 1 to 2 feet apart in the affected areas. These are then filled and smoothed over to leave a minimal trace.

Look for contractors with good reviews, proper licensing, and insurance. Ask for referrals from friends or check online reviews. Choosing a contractor with experience specifically in mudjacking is essential to ensure quality work.

Concrete sinks for various reasons, such as soil erosion, inadequate soil compaction before the slab is poured, or the natural settling of the ground over time. Water movement through the soil is a common contributor, washing away soil under the concrete.

Ensure good drainage around the concrete slab prevents water from pooling and eroding the base. Regularly inspect and seal cracks in the concrete to keep water out, and consider adding additional support or material underneath the slab if necessary.

Dry and warm weather are optimal conditions for mudjacking, as cold and wet conditions can hinder the curing of the slurry. Mudjacking should not be performed when temperatures are below freezing or during heavy rain.

The choice depends on the project’s specific needs. Mudjacking is more cost-effective and uses more environmentally friendly materials. Polyurethane foam offers a quicker cure time and fewer visible holes but is generally more expensive.

The slurry used in mudjacking typically takes about 24 to 48 hours to dry sufficiently to handle regular foot traffic. Vehicle traffic should wait at least 48 hours.

A void is a gap under a concrete slab where the soil has washed away or settled. Mudjacking fills these voids with a slurry mixture, which lifts the concrete back to its original level and stabilizes it.

Most residential mudjacking projects do not require a building permit, but it can vary by location. It’s best to check with your local building authority to confirm whether a license is needed.

Licensing requirements vary by state and locality. Not all areas require mudjackers to be licensed, but they should at least be bonded and insured. Always verify a contractor’s credentials before hiring.

Mudjacking requires specialized equipment and materials, making it challenging for DIY. For safety and quality, it is recommended that you hire a professional with the right tools and experience.

Mudjacking involves drilling and pumping, which can be noisy and may create minimal dust. However, contractors typically manage this well, keeping disruption to a minimum.

Mudjacking has minimal impact on landscaping compared to other repair methods like slab replacement. The equipment used is designed to be minimally invasive.

Mudjacking is generally less expensive than complete slab replacement. It can cost about one-third to one-half as much as replacing the concrete, making it a cost-effective alternative for many property owners.

Spring through fall is typically the best time to perform mudjacking, as conditions are less likely to be freezing or overly wet. Mild and dry weather helps ensure the materials are set correctly.

Mudjacking can be scaled up for large projects like highways, overpasses, and industrial floors. It’s a practical solution for correcting subsidence and unevenness in large concrete installations.

Through burrowing activities, rodents and other pests can undermine concrete by creating voids underneath. Mudjacking can fill these voids and restore stability to the slab.

Mudjacking is considered environmentally friendly because it uses natural materials and extends the life of existing concrete, reducing waste and the demand for new materials.

Yes, mudjacking can be used to level steps and other vertical structures that are settling or tilting, provided they are structurally sound.

Post-mudjacking maintenance includes

• sealing the cracks and joints to prevent water from entering,
• re-compacting the soil, and
• maintaining proper drainage around the slab.

Proper assessment of the underlying soil and using a correctly formulated slurry mixture are critical. Regular monitoring and maintenance also help maintain levelness over time.

Mudjacking is primarily used to raise and level concrete, not lower it. If a slab is too high, grinding down the surface or adjusting surrounding slabs may be necessary.

Common signs include uneven concrete surfaces, cracks forming where slab sections have settled differently, and pooling water on concrete surfaces due to unevenness.

Properly executed mudjacking can improve drainage by leveling the slabs so water flows away from buildings and does not pool on the surface.

Mudjacking may not be suitable for slabs that are heavily broken up or have severe underlying soil instability. It’s also less effective with ongoing water damage or deep soil erosion issues.