Is it just us, or is your concrete slab looking a little….off-kilter?
Yup! If you have concrete around your home, in the form of:
- A patio
- A driveway
- A sidewalk
- Garage floors
- Concrete stairs
Your home is susceptible to settling and shifting. While this isn’t uncommon, it can be a pain for homeowners, as it can lead to further damage and safety hazards. However, a full concrete replacement? Definitely not fun.
That’s where mudjacking comes in. Yup, you heard us right. Mudjacking is a temporary solution that can solve concrete settling. Sound too good to be true? Today, we’ll be explaining everything you need to know about the process, including the average mudjacking cost.
What Is Mudjacking?
Mudjacking – also known as concrete leveling – is a way of raising up sunken concrete slabs. It is a much more affordable alternative to a full concrete replacement.
A sunken concrete slab is often caused by the soil underneath moving over time. This can happen for a variety of reasons, but it is typically caused by the change in weather, which makes the soil expand and contract.
While the slight movement may not seem very worrisome, in the long run, it can lead to:
- Pooling water and water damage 🌊
- Tripping hazards ⚠️
- Severe cracks and damage 💔
The solution? Mudjacking, of course!
Your concrete specialist will start by drilling holes into the concrete floor. These small holes will then be injected with a slurry. The slurry is typically made from a combination of cement, water, and soil.
As the slurry fills the void underneath the concrete, you will notice the concrete lifting. The mixture will cure for about 24 hours, and after that, your uneven concrete should be fixed!
Mudjacking Pros and Cons
If the concrete raising process sounds too good to be true, we get it. But it really does work well for many homeowners!
That being said, every rose has its thorns. Check out our lists of the pros and cons of mudjacking for your concrete slabs.
✅ Pros:
- Cost Effective – Depending on the size of the area, a full concrete replacement can cost thousands of dollars. Mudjacking is a much more affordable alternative.
- Quick Fix – If you’re looking to fix your patio or garage floor and fix it fast, mudjacking may be right for you! The entire service can be completed in a single day (if not less)!
- Aesthetics – If you opt for a concrete slab replacement, you will likely end up with a section of concrete that doesn’t match the surrounding area. Mudjacking projects allow you to keep your existing concrete surface for a more seamless look.
❌ Cons:
- Short-Term Fix – If you’re looking for a solution that you never have to worry about again, concrete leveling may not be right for you. Mudjacking, on average, only lasts between 5-10 years before needing to be redone.
- Unpredictable – While a concrete or foundation repair specialist will be able to make an informed guess as to whether or not mudjacking is right for you, there are no guarantees. Mudjacking can be unpredictable, with inconsistent results.
How Much Does Mudjacking Cost?
When it comes to home improvement projects, most homeowners are primarily concerned with cost. So how much does mudjacking actually cost you?
Mudjacking projects are relatively affordable, making them a great choice for homeowners on a budget. Most projects cost between $3-$7 per square foot. However, keep in mind that a quality contractor will likely also have a significant hourly labor cost, between $30-$100. Be sure to factor that into your final cost estimates.
Worried about the price? Most reputable companies will offer estimates before beginning work on your home.
Alternatives to Mudjacking
It’s worth noting that mudjacking isn’t the only solution for your home. Some homeowners opt for polyurethane concrete raising.
This process is similar to mudjacking, but instead injects polyurethane foam underneath your concrete surfaces. Poly jacking is a bit more durable than mudjacking, lasting for around ten years before needing replacement.
3 Reasons to Consider Mudjacking For Your Home
How do you know whether or not mudjacking is right for your home? Here are some signs that concrete leveling could benefit your home.
1.) Concrete Is Intact
Mudjacking is not a solution for severe concrete problems. This can include cracked concrete, crumbling concrete, or concrete with deep gouges. In order for mudjacking to be most effective, you’ll want to make sure that your concrete surface is intact.
2.) Sinking Concrete
Sinking concrete is the most obvious sign that your concrete surfaces could use some TLC. Look out for uneven ground or shifting furniture to help you determine whether your concrete has settled.
3) Pooling Water
Keeping your eyes peeled for pooling water will help you determine whether or not your home might need slab leveling. Pooling water indicates uneven ground but can also lead to water damage to your foundation and the rest of your home.
Consult With the Pros
If you are ready to get your concrete surface back on track, you need the expert team at Perma Pier! We are proud to be Texas’ most trusted foundation repair company and have the experience to help you find solutions for your home. Contact us today to get started on your mudjacking project!
